FRIDAY 17TH NOVEMBER 2023

Wale Edun: Nigeria Needs to Generate Adequate Revenues, Not Borrowing to Fund 2024 Budget Senate raises concerns over poor MDAs’ revenue projections, leakages Sunday Aborisade in Abuja The Minister of Finance and

Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, has said the country cannot rely on

borrowing to fund the 2024 national budget.

He said the nation must make

necessary sacrifices to generate adequate revenues to reduce its current high deficit budget

financing.

The Minister stated this yesterday, when he appeared before the joint

Senate Committee scrutinising the Continued on page 5

FG Withdraws $1.1bn Case against Italian Oil Giant, Eni... Page 5 Friday 17 November, 2023 Vol 28. No 10446. Price: N250

www.thisdaylive.com TR

UT H

& RE A S O

N

Ganduje: We'll Use Imo as Base to Liberate South-east... Page 33

Court Declares Zamfara Guber Poll Inconclusive, Orders Rerun in Three LGAs Alex Enumah in Abuja

The Court of Appeal in Abuja has declared as inconclusive the March 18 governorship election

that produced the Zamfara State governor, Dauda Lawal.

A three-man panel of the appellate court, in a unanimous judgement, declared the

election inconclusive after voiding results from two local government areas of the state.

The panel subsequently set aside the return of Lawal as

governor and ordered fresh elections in the three local government areas of Maradun, birnin-magaji and Bukyun.

The justices held that it was

wrong for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to adopt results from the IReV, because "IReV is not part of the collation system"

but for viewing purposes.

Justice Sybil Gbagi, who noted that issues 1,2 and 3 Continued on page 5

Fagbemi: Prosecution of Alleged Terrorists Resumes in Two Weeks Says FG secured over 500 convictions, N45bn forfeitures in two years Ribadu: Nigeria’s security situation has improved under Tinubu Urges Nigerians to be patient with president

Obinna Chima in Uyo and Alex Enumah in Abuja Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, yesterday, disclosed that the federal government would resume the prosecution of some alleged terrorists, including Boko Haram members, in the next two weeks.

Fagbemi made the disclosure in Abuja, at the opening of the 40th Technical Commission and Plenary Meeting of the InterGovernmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA). He said the federal government had secured over 500 convictions, and N45 billion forfeitures in two years.

The revelations came as National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, yesterday, Continued on page 5

INAUGURATION OF NDDC BOARD...

L-R: Chairman Governing Board of Niger Delta Development Commission, Mr. Chiedu Ebie; Managing Director/CEO, Chief Samuel Ogbuku, Ph.D; Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Alabo Hon. Boma Iyaye; and Executive Director, Projects, Sir Victor Etim Antai; Executive Director, Corporate Services, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde, during the inauguration of the governing board of the commission… yesterday

2

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 17, 2023 •T H I S D AY

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 17, 2023 • T H I S D AY

3

4

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 17, 2023 •T H I S D AY

5

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2023

PAGE FIVE

FG Withdraws $1.1bn Case against Italian Oil Giant, Eni Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Nigeria is withdrawing civil claims totalling $1.1 billion against energy giant Eni SpA, ending a long battle in Italian courts over allegations of corruption in an oil-field deal.

The West African country’s justice ministry will waive the claims before Italy’s highest court “unconditionally” and “with immediate effect” no later than November 17, according to a letter seen by Bloomberg.

The nation will also “irrevocably” waive the right to any further legal action in Italy against Eni, its affiliates, and current and past officers in regard to rights for the field, known as Oil Prospecting License 245, or OPL 245.

Eni confirmed receipt of the letter and said in a statement that it is ready to consider, together with the government of Nigeria, the necessary steps for conversion of the prospective

license to one that will allow the development of the oil block.

Nigeria’s Ministry of Justice wasn’t immediately able to respond to a request for comment, the report said.

Operations at the Nigerian oil block have been halted for more than a decade by a series of trials and competing legal claims. The area is considered to be potentially one of the richest concessions in the country, with recoverable reserves of 560 million barrels, according to Eni’s estimates.

Whether Eni and its partner Shell Plc could finally begin to develop OPL 245 may depend on the resolution of other claims, including arbitration proceedings filed by Eni at the World Bank’s International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes and litigation within Nigeria.

Eni, Shell and some of their former and current managers had already

been definitively acquitted last year in a criminal case in Milan, in which they were accused of knowing that much of the $1.1 billion they paid to acquire OPL 245 would be distributed as bribes.

Even after that verdict a civil suit continued, with Nigeria seeking combined compensation of $3.5 billion from Eni and Shell, claiming the amount reflected the real value of the license purchased in 2011 by the two companies.

A timeline of events in the asset showed that Nigerian government awarded OPL 245 for $20 million to Malabu Oil and Gas. Court documents later showed that Malabu was owned by Dan Etete, who was oil minister at the time, and people close to former military ruler Sani Abacha.

In May 1999, Etete, on behalf of Malabu, paid $2.04 million for

the OPL 245 licence out of the $20 million the company had agreed to pay. Two years later, Shell signed an agreement to acquire a 40 per cent stake in OPL 245 from Malabu.

In July 2001, the Nigerian government under President Olusegun Obasanjo revoked Malabu's OPL 245 licence, triggering legal disputes over its ownership that dragged on for years.

In November 2006, Malabu reached a settlement with the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) and agreed to pay $218 million to FGN in return for the licence being fully reinstated to Malabu. Malabu subsequently failed to pay.

Around April 2007, Shell launched arbitration against the Nigerian government for "wrongful expropriation" of its rights and in December 2010, Mohammed Abacha, son of the former Nigerian ruler,

launched a legal challenge arguing that Etete pushed him out of his partial ownership of Malabu.

In May 20, 2011, a $1.092 billion is placed in an escrow account opened by the Nigerian government with US bank JP Morgan. In August, $875 million is transferred to bank accounts in the name of Malabu, while in 2014, Nigeria's House of Representatives voted to cancel the OPL 245 deal, calling it contrary to the laws of Nigeria.

Seven years later, in 2017, Nigeria filed a case at London's High Court against US bank JP Morgan alleging negligence for its role in transferring the $875 million to Etete's Malabu. JP Morgan described the allegations as "unsubstantiated and without merit".

The case has now effectively ended with Nigeria withdrawing the case against the oil giant. The country which has been unable to

Tinubu ramp up oil production, has been doing everything to ensure that some of its assets which have been lying fallow begin production as soon as possible.

FAGBEMI: PROSECUTION OF ALLEGED TERRORISTS RESUMES IN TWO WEEKS said violent extremism in some parts of the country had been on the decline since President Bola Tinubu assumed office in May. Ribadu made the assertion at the ongoing 19th All Nigeria Editors’ Conference in Uyo, while speaking on the topic, “Oil Theft, Illegal Bunkering, Pipeline Vandalism: Impact on Nigerian Economy.”

He called for patience on the part of the citizenry, saying Tinubu is working hard to address the country’s critical problems.

Fagbemi stressed that the federal government was alive to the issue of bringing suspected terrorists to justice and was finalising efforts to ensure their smooth and successful trial He said, "Efforts are on to resume the trial of those categories of people. And I think, in the next two weeks, it will be a different story. We are conscious of that issue.

"Facilities are being put in place.

Apart from the regular physical mode of trial, we are working on ways to ensure that virtual trial can also be conducted."

The minister said the adoption of virtual trial was aimed at preventing delay, and added that the government was not shying away from its responsibility of providing funds for the purpose.

The AGF emphasised the importance of regional and international cooperation in order to effectively combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and the financing of proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

According to him, "Our ability to tackle the most complex criminal activity, money laundering and violent terrorist attacks, is predicated on the capabilities of our supervisory, law enforcement and prosecutorial authorities, and the outcomes that we are achieving point to the need for greater investment in human and technical resources and improved training and capacity development.

“In 2022, we increased the budgets for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Independent Corrupt Practices

Commission, and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency by almost 95 per cent. We now have over 1,500 officers dedicated to investigating and prosecuting money laundering across these three agencies alone.

"These sustained investment has seen increased numbers of investigations, prosecutions and convictions consistently since 2021, with 5,118 investigations, 1,509 prosecutions and almost 500 convictions secured, resulting in over N45 billion of illicit proceeds seized.

"We have also made progress in tackling the financing of terrorism and, in particular, I am pleased that we have identified and designated a number of individuals and entities linked to terrorist activity and seized funds linked to them."

Fagbemi observed that the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) had become a global model and had achieved the outcomes envisaged by the passage of its enabling legislation in 2018, which established it as an independent, autonomous unit.

He urged that as GIABA moved towards the conclusion of the second round of mutual evaluations and began preparations for the third round, members should take time to reflect on how they had contributed to strengthening their national AML/CFT/CPF frameworks.

Fagbemi stated, "I believe that the FATF standards are merely the minimum benchmark that we must all aspire to in order to address the serious criminal offences that are prevalent in our countries and across our region.

“Our legal frameworks, policies and institutional capacities must aspire to put in place the foundations necessary to achieve the vision of the Africa 2063 Agenda, of an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens, representing a dynamic force in the international arena.

"As we survey the results of this round of mutual evaluations, it is, indeed, clear that more needs

to be done across our sub-region to enhance effectiveness based on FATF Standards."

In a goodwill message, President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr Omar Touray, commended GIABA and its Director General for the agency's "laudable performances" in the recent exit of GIABA from the FATF Effectiveness Improvement Programme (EIP).

Touray said the "Commission will continue to provide the needed support to GIABA to sustain the gains of the EIP and address other outstanding issues in the EIP Action Plan, including the recruitment of the Director of Evaluation and Compliance as well as adequately prepare for its next round of mutual evaluation."

He urged the region not to rest on its oars, as money laundering, terrorism financing and other organised crimes threatened regional peace and sustainable development.

Touray called on member states to continue to take steps to effectively address the strategic deficiencies identified in their AML/CFT systems.

Speaking at the event, also, GIABA's Director General, Edwin Harris, said the gathering was an attestation that the collective effort in the fight against money laundering, terrorist financing and

others forms of transnational crimes urgently required coordination and cooperation.

Harris stated, "GIABA, as a FATF styled region body and specialised ECOWAS institution, is responsible for safeguarding the economies of its member states, will continue to work with both its members and partners in delivering on its mandate in a more meaningful way using the collective expertise and shared vision of member states in strengthening their AML/CFT regimes and increasing advocacy to political leaders on the urgency of demonstrating political will that trickle down at operational and policy levels for a more effective and robust fight against transnational crimes.

"Results from accessed countries thus far published from the second-round show progress has been made in terms of technical compliance across member states.

“However, fundamental major improvements are required in terms of effectiveness.

“In this regard, it becomes a more pressing need that the secretariat works with member states in enhancing effectiveness compliance that will lead to more actions that create deterrence."

Ribadu: Nigeria’s Security Situation Has Improved under

Tinubu The NSA said violent extremism in parts of the country had been on the decline since President Bola Tinubu assumed office. He pointed out that the country was going through a tough time. But he assured Nigerians that in no distant time, most of the challenges, especially in the area of security, would be addressed.

Ribadu said the country used to record over 1,200 deaths on a daily basis due to criminal activities, but since Tinubu assumed office, there had been a significant drop to about 100 cases. Furthermore, he pointed out that in the South-east, police stations used to be under severe attacks, but that was no longer the case.

The NSA stated that the country's crude oil production had increased to 1.7 million barrels per day, with the hope of hitting two million barrels per day by next year.

“Work is ongoing, the government is adopting work more and talk less to address the insecurity challenges headlong.”

He appealed to Nigerians to be patient, saying the Tinubu administration is doing everything to improve the security situation of the country.

Ribadu said, “We have given

Nigeria to President Bola Tinubu to manage it for us.

“In the last five months, I have been there by his side and have seen how things were and how things are when we started, and hopefully the direction we are going is okay.

“We inherited a tough period.

We appeal for patience and understanding. It’s tough times and that is the reality. We are not condemning anyone but that is the truth. Those who are in charge must say the truth, say it as it is, and then hopefully things will be better for you.”

Ribadu also told the editors, “Like I said, my coming is to identify with you. I also appeal to you for support, we are going through tough times. It requires all of us to come together. We are all in it together, it is not going to be for too long. In a matter of time, it will be better.

“In the South-east, when we took over last year, we had 46 police stations attacked, today we don’t have one single one. In the last two months, not a single person had been killed through violent attacks in the South-east, we don’t talk. The leadership we have in our country does understand things a bit better.

“This government is the most transparent ever in the history of Nigeria. Honestly, we will be sincere and do our best.”

COURT DECLARES ZAMFARA GUBER POLL INCONCLUSIVE, ORDERS RERUN IN THREE LGAS were resolved in favour of the respondents, however, held that the appeal succeeded because issues 3,5,6, and 7, which formed the kernel of the appeal, were in favour of the appellant.

The judge subsequently allowed the appeal, declared the March 18 governorship election that produced Lawal inconclusive, and ordered INEC to conduct a fresh election in the affected polling units.

INEC's Returning Officer in Zamfara State, Kassimu Shehu, had in March declared Lawal winner of the governorship

poll, saying he polled 377,726 votes to defeat Matawalle, then incumbent and candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who scored a total of 311,976 votes.

Dissatisfied, Matawalle, who is now Minister of State for Defence, approached the Zamfara State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal to challenge the outcome of the poll.

He cited non-compliance with the electoral laws, irregularities and corrupt practices as grounds for the nullification of Lawal's election. Specifically, the

petitioner alleged that INEC subverted his victory at the polls by failing to include the results of some ward areas.

However, the tribunal, in a judgement delivered in September, held that the petition was devoid of merit and subsequently dismissed it with a cost of N500,000 against the petitioners.

Not satisfied, Matawalle approached the appellate court, which on Thursday, in its judgement, disagreed with the lower court and subsequently voided the judgement dismissing

Matawalle's petition.

The court held that the appellant provided credible evidence showing that INEC failed to comply with the law when it rejected collated results from polling units and used results from the IReV to declare Lawal winner of the March 18 governorship poll.

Having declared as illegal, unlawful and void the results from the IReV, the appellate court subsequently ordered a fresh election in the affected polling units in three local council areas.

WALE EDUN: NIGERIA NEEDS TO GENERATE ADEQUATE REVENUES, NOT BORROWING TO FUND 2024 BUDGET 2024-2026 Medium Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper led by Senator Sani Musa.

Edun, briefed the joint panel in company of the Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Mr. Zacch Adedeji, and the Director General of the Debt Management Office, Ms. Patience Oniha, before the lawmakers called for a closed session.

The Minister maintained that the best way Nigeria could fund its annual budgets was to spend more money on infrastructure that could generate revenues. He also said the advanced countries had increased interest rates because they wanted to bring down inflation rate to stabilise their economies.

He said accessing foreign loans

would therefore be very expensive for a developing country to cope with.

Edun said, "Clearly the environment that we have now, internationally as well as nationally we are in no position to rely on borrowing.

"We have an existing borrowing profile. Our direction of tariff is to reduce the quantum of borrowing or intercepting deficit financing in the 2024 budget.

"Simply put, internationally there is a focus among rich countries on bringing down the inflation rate to stabilise the economies and give them opportunity for investment growth.

"They are in the process, sacrificing that immediate goal for

compacting their economies, or at least contracting the money supplies and pushing up the interest rates and of course high interest rates and investments don't go together.

"What is left for us to access those funds are expensive so it is the last thing that we must rely on.

"The last thing you can think of is to pile up more debts. Government needs to not just maintain its activity, it needs to spend more.

"If you look at government spending, if you look at the budget as a percentage of GDP, ours is one of the lowest being 10 per cent, even Ghana is at 25 per cent, rich ones they are 50 per cent.

"The very rich countries have to be most advanced in terms of social safety nets and their social

security system at 70 per cent of GDP. Government spending definitely will lead to increase in revenues "The number one source of revenue especially in the short term, even in the medium term is all revenue."

Earlier, Musa, who is also the Chairman, Senate Committee on Finance, expressed concerns that the revenue projections of the ministries, departments and agencies of the federal government that had so far appeared before the MTEF-FSP panel were a far cry to the what the federal government was proposing as income in the 2024 fiscal year.

He noted that going for external interventions would definitely not be an option because it would further

push the country to further deficit financing.

Musa added, "Currently there are lots of leakages in the use of government resources.

"A lot of funds being generated as revenues by most MDAs are not being remitted as at when due.

Some even remits funds a year after they collected the money.

"The office of the Accountant General of the Federation should look properly in that direction.

"The current practice of delaying the remittances of revenues by the MDAs has created a room for the misappropriation of those funds.

"After meeting with the Nigeria Customs Service officials yesterday, we realised that there were lots of shortfalls they are experiencing as

a result of incidences of waivers.

"We want to know who is issuing those waivers. Is it the FIRS or the Ministry of Finance?

"We are also interested in knowing details of the Customs modernization project, known as e-customs.

"The Senate Committee on Finance is interested in knowing the type of agreement that was signed on behalf of the federal government of Nigeria.

"What is the value of the e-customs agreement? How much is Nigeria expecting?

"We are tired of judgment debts all over the place. We need to know the plans on ground to collect excise duties and other tariffs so that we won't run a deficit budget again next year."

6

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2023

NEWS

Group News Editor: Goddy Egene Email: Goddy.egene@thisdaylive.com, 0803 350 6821, 0809 7777 322

GRAND INAUGURATION OF TADAMUL MUSLIMEEN MOSQUE...

L-R: Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; Sultan of Sokoto and President Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Muhammed Sa'ad Abubakar; Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero and Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alhaji Daud Makanjuoka Akinola, during the grand inauguration of Tadamul Muslimeen Mosque, Ibadan, rebuilt ... yesterday

Shettima: Nigeria's Economic Growth Rests on Improved Public-Private Partnership Inaugurates presidential enabling business environment council Deji Elumoye in Abuja Vice President Kashim Shettima has stressed the importance of improved public-private partnership in infrastructure as critical catalysts for Nigeria's economic growth.

Shettima who stated this in Abuja, yesterday, during the public presentation of two books authored by one of Nigeria's legal luminaries, Mallam Yusuf Ali (SAN), recalled President Bola Tinubu's legacies as governor of Lagos State, a feat he said the President was set to replicate at the national level in the bid to reposition the country.

Delivering his speech titled, "Mallam Yusuf Ali: Enduring Reflection in Law, History, and Public Policy," the Vice President said, "There is, of course, no politician in the country today who can match President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s experience in both brokering public-private partnership and understanding what must be done to bridge our infrastructure gaps.

"You only need to gaze into the

realities of Lagos State before and after his progressive leadership as Executive Governor to realise his spectacular legacy, a skill-set he’s again brought into play to reposition Nigeria as a competitive global player."

Noting that the President's Renewed Hope Agenda was built on the realisation of improved infrastructure as a critical catalyst for the nation's economic growth, Shettima pointed out that the projections of the administration's sound economic team on revolutionising investment in infrastructure were in tandem with those of its development partners.

He said: "I am here to acknowledge that such a grand vision is the reason we are exploring innovative funding mechanisms like Public Private Partnerships, with avenues like the Infrastructure Concessions Regulatory Commission (ICRC) as testimony to such ambition. The on-going review of the ICRC (Establishment ETC) Act, 2005, is telling."

The Vice President described the two unveiled books, “The Supreme Court and the Jurisprudence of the Right to Fair Hearing," and “Public Private Partnerships: An Essential Guide for Stakeholders,” as an eagleeyed contribution to the "nation's pursuit of order and development."

"These books aren’t well-timed solely due to their thematic interests.

They are not being celebrated solely for their interpretation of paramount aspects of our nation's journey, nor for a yearning for such interventions in our collective responsibility to serve the nation. These two books stand out due to the intellectual and professional pedigree of the author," he added.

Describing the author of the two books, Ali as a friend and brother, Shettima also described the senior lawyer as a, "reservoir of knowledge acquired over decades of sincere engagement with the legal intricacies of our dear nation.”

"His decision to document these treasures of wisdom reflects a legacy that shall echo through the corridors

of scholarship beyond the practice and learning of law," he noted.

The Vice President further observed that the author was able to capture readers' attention by recognising the need for a clearer perspective on collaborations between the public and private sectors.

According to him: "Nigeria's infrastructure deficit depends on our understanding of the complex interests of all parties involved in deals that do not disadvantage the nation. It's crucial to ensure that we are not blinded by any legal requirements.

"It's worth noting that one astute lawyer can bankrupt a country, but it also takes just one astute lawyer to save a nation. We have witnessed this, even in the recent case of Nigeria versus P&ID, which could have resulted in an unbelievable $11 billion arbitral award against us."

Reviewing the book, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, said apart from the numerous contributions to knowledge by the author, the book offers an absorbing, interesting and

Report Highlights Further Risks to Food, Commodity Prices in 2023, 2024 Laments low bank lending to agriculture, inadequate inputs to farmers, seeks greater investments to transform food system James Emejo in Abuja A new crop production report has predicted an increase in prices of all major agricultural commodities predicated on a general decline in production and increasing demand across processing and export value chains.

The APEX Wet Season Crop Production Report 2023 which was launched yesterday, also expressed concern that input lending remained a major challenge in the country as banking sector credit to agriculture stood at barely 6.16 per cent in 2022.

The report further identified food insecurity and food inflation as major challenges confronting the country with a 5.7 million metric ton - deficit across human consumption and agro-processing, as well as a historic high food inflation rate of 30.64 per cent.

Specifically, it noted that paddy

rice faced the most notable upswing in 2022/2023, partly due to increased flooding and India’s rice export ban which contributed to an increase of 34 per cent to baseline pricing of N353,000/mt.

The report said this was expected to rise to N400,000/mt and projected to stabilise at between N480,000 and N500,000/mt by Q3 2023.

It pointed out that Nigeria's Global Hunger Index score remained alarmingly high at 109th out of 125 countries, indicating a severe food security crisis in the country.

The report noted that food prices continued to surge as witnessed in the 2023 season adding that food security challenges would continue to persist, further reducing the Africa’s capacity to achieve zero hunger by 2030.

Speaking at the unveiling of the report in Abuja, President/

Chief Executive, AFEX Nigeria, Mr. Akinyinka Akintunde, said, “This year, we nearly doubled our sample size from 20,677 to 39,091 to get an accurate reflection of the current state of agriculture production, and we found that we must take extra care to prioritise improvement in agricultural productivity for these farmers, and this is hinged on investing in the sector, and solving for infrastructure, logistics, and technology gaps.

“This transformation will substantially enhance food self-sufficiency and increase our ability to meet the nutritional and food security needs of a growing population while also bolstering the economy through foreign exchange earnings.”

Essentially, the study delivers insights into six key commodities including maize, paddy rice, soybean, sorghum, cocoa, and

sesame, and leverages farmer surveys and measurement of transaction-level data to track vital information across crop production, price performance, and market dynamics.

Akintunde said the report would aid the understanding of the current food system, which needed urgent transformation while providing stakeholders in the commodities market with intelligence to make data-driven trading decisions in the coming season.

Nonetheless, the survey affirmed critical improvement in access to farmland for cultivation in crucial areas, as well as an increase in the usage of improved inputs, such as high-yielding seeds and fertilizers, compared to the preceding season, which contributed to maize and paddy rice being forecasted to have a significantly higher production in the current season.

informative insight on the Supreme Court’s jurisprudence on the right to fair hearing in Nigeria.

He noted that the book is a wellresearched study focusing on the principles of fair hearing as laid down by the Supreme Court of Nigeria, adding that it is a must-read for not only lawyers and judges but also for all other stakeholders involved in the justice sector.

The other book on Public Private Partnerships in Nigeria, according to him, was written with the aim of providing stakeholders with the requisite knowledge and guidance regarding the operations and implementations of the PublicPrivate Partnerships initiative in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, Shettima yesterday, inaugurated the Third Cohort of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) with a call on its members to be 100 per cent committed to promoting a conducive business environment.

This, according to him, would directly reflect the strong political will behind the transformative initiatives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government.

Speaking during the inaugural meeting of the PEBEC at the State House, Abuja, Shettima also implored members of the Council to align themselves effortlessly with the

eight-point Renewed Hope agenda of the Tinubu administration.

According to him: "Aligning seamlessly with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the eight-point Renewed Hope agenda of this administration, our commitment to fostering a conducive business environment is a direct reflection of the strong political will driving the transformative initiatives of this government.

"Today, we stand on a robust foundation, and we recognise that achieving PEBEC's mandate directly contributes to the success of our shared economic prosperity as a nation.

"Undoubtedly, reforms are formidable undertakings, particularly in our region. However, history has proven that they are achievable, and we draw inspiration from past successes. As a council, our dedication to these reforms must be unwavering, and each member must take ownership of this mission with 100 per cent commitment.

"The PEBEC is an enabler for the MDAs in government. Our role, therefore, calls for a unified and collaborative effort across the council and MDAs. Reforms require a collective commitment, and success will be a shared triumph, resonating not only within our council but throughout the nation".

Kogi: Police Confirm Killing of ECWA Pastor By Kidnappers Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja The Kogi State Police Police command, has confirmed the killing of a pastor of ECWA church, Obajana, Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State, Pastor David Musa, who was abducted by kidnappers.

The Kogi Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP William Ovye Aya, explained that the command had begun investigation on the incident, adding that, those behind the killing of the late Pastor Musa would arrested and prosecuted.

Musa was killed by his abductors after collecting the ransom of N1,000, 000 in Kogi State.

Sources hinted that the late Pastor Musa, who was abducted on Saturday, November 11, 2023, was later killed on Tuesday after N1

million was paid to the kidnappers.

A member of the church, a female member of the church, whose name could not be identified narrated how the Pastor was killed.

According to her, "The Pastor went to his farm that ugly day. So, his wife was waiting for him to return home but she didn't see her husband. When it was nightfall, the wife raised alarm in which the Church people, including residents of the community went to his farm to search for him.

"It was then, they discovered that the Pastor has been kidnapped. The abductors got in touch with the family demanding for N20,000,000.

Since the church and the family could not raise such amount of money, they pleaded with the kidnappers and they reduced the ransom to N1,000,000.

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 17, 2023 • T H I S D AY

7

8

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2023

NEWS

ECONOMIC AFFAIRS AND FOREIGN DEBTS INTERACTIVE SESSION… L-R: Minister of Finance, Wale Edun; Executive Chairman FIRS, Zacch Adedeji and DG DMO Patience Oniha at a Joint Committee on Finance, Appropriation, National Planning and Economic Affairs and Foreign Debts interactive Session with government agencies on 24-26 Medium -Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP) held in Abuja ... yesterday

FG Inaugurates NDDC Governing Board, Urges Members to Expedite Action on Eight-point Agenda Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja The Minister of Niger Delta Development (MNDD), Abubakar Momoh, yesterday inaugurated the new Governing Board of the Niger Development Commission (NDDC) with a charge that they should have on their fingertips the eight-point presidential priorities that would guide the board in its development strides of the Niger Delta region.

Speaking during the ceremony, the minister said: “The inauguration of the board means that we have accepted to be part of the ‘Renewed Hope’ Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and to that very extent, we need

to be conversant with the eight presidential priorities ranging from food security, ending of poverty in inclusivity, job creation, anti-corruption stance, rule of law and others. To that extent you are expected to work towards delivery in those areas.

“We are also aware that there have been a lot of complaints about the NDDC and I want to use this opportunity to appeal and also direct that this time around, we need to change the narrative. We cannot continue to do the same thing the same way and expect that we are going to achieve a different result.

“Collectively, therefore, we must be committed to how the zone

Nigeria, Others Present as Eni, Luiss University Launch Maiden International Network on African Energy Transition Peter Uzoho Multinational energy group, Eni and the Italian Luiss University, yesterday in Rome, kicked off the International Network on African Energy Transition (INAET), gathering major institutions, universities, think-tanks and scholars from Africa, Europe and worldwide to set up a common hub on the continent’s transition.

With Africa being home to some of the world’s fastest growing economies, the energy transition offers huge opportunities for the continent and INAET's ambition, according to the partners, was to untap its potential, exploring new paths for collaboration among the key actors at stake.

In a statement issued yesterday in Milan, Italy, Eni explained that the two-day inaugural conference in Rome, holding yesterday and today, has the participation of high-level universities, research centers and institutions from Algeria, Congo, Côte d'Ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, and South Africa.

The participants at the session would also create synergies with European and international universities and institutions, such as the European University Institute, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), the International Renewable Energy Agency (IREA), the Atlantic Council, the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cassa

Depositi e Prestiti, and other relevant stakeholders.

According to the statement, "matching the leading academic experience of Luiss University with Eni’s know-how on the energy sector and its wide and deeply rooted presence in Africa, the event plans to address five top priorities: mitigation and adaptation measures for climate change; Africa’s development paths and the resources needed; younger generation’s outlook on the energy transition; African priorities in the energy transition; international players and private sector role in the African energy transition.

"Eni has been operating in Africa since the 1950s, and currently operates in 14 countries in the continent. The company is committed to improve energy access in Africa through a wide portfolio of projects, ranging from traditional to renewable energy production and innovative initiatives."

Eni stated that it was supplying energy efficient cookstoves in Mozambique, Congo, Côte d'Ivoire, Kenya, among others); integrating the African countries into the biofuel value chain in countries like Kenya, Mozambique, Congo, Côte d'Ivoire, Rwanda, among others).

It added that it was investing on the creation of research centers focused on new energies in Oyo in Congo, Solar Lab in Algeria, among others; snd also powering water wells through photovoltaics in partnership with international agencies in Nigeria.

can be transformed."

The former lawmaker advised the board to reconsider the issue of abandoned projects and see how local contractors owed below N30 million could be considered for payment after ascertaining the completion of work done.

The Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr. Shuaib Belgore, in his opening remarks reminded the newly-appointed board members

of the importance of the region. He urged them to bring to fore their wealth of experience and expertise, as well as dedication in working harmoniously with the ministry and other stakeholders to achieve socio-economic prosperity in line with the ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda of the president. The Chairman of the NDDC Board, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

for deeming it worthy to appoint them.

He noted that “considering the challenges and enormity of this responsibility, the board would stand on the pedestal of Mr. President's ‘Renewed Hope’ mandate and will look back at the vision and history of the NDDC 23 years existential journey aligning it with current realities and objectives of the current administration.

“We would execute legacy projects based on detailed need assessment and seek strategic collaboration with our partners.

Effective communication with key stakeholders is paramount in the discharge of our duties with development partners, as this would restore trust, transparency and accountability which will enhance development in the region."

FCTA, Daewoo in Talks over Citing of 5-Star Hotel in Abuja Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja The FCT Minister, Mr. Nyesom Wike and the Chairman of Daewoo Engineering and Construction, Jung Won Ju, yesterday held talks on the prospect of investing in the tourism sector by citing a five-star hotel in Abuja.

Jung was accompanied on the visit by the Managing Director, Daewoo E&C Nigeria, Taewon Jung, Executive Vice President, Daewoo Engineering and Construction, Seung Han, Country Chairman, Daewoo E and C, Chief Joseph Penawou and Executive Director (Technical) Daewoo E

and C, Steve Ko. He said the project would create thousands of jobs in Abuja in the same manner the company did in Vietnam.

He vowed to ensure that challenges between both countries were promptly addressed, and to expedite actions on the partnership between Daewoo and the FCT. “Even though there will be a lot of challenges for doing business between you and us, somehow, we are ready to overcome every challenge and our MD of Nigeria here, will fully support the procedure to be realised as soon as possible. We are willing

to comply with your demands and your guidance,” Jung said.

In his remarks, Wike described the relationship between Republic of Korea and Nigeria as perfect.

He called for concrete discussion for immediate action on the project, stressing that his desire was to ensure the development of Abuja and to transform it to an attractive tourist destination.

He also promised to liaise with the Korean Ambassador to schedule a visit to the country while assuring Jung that there would be no impediments to the project.

He said the Tinubu

administration had fostered an investment-friendly climate by taking steps to remove the bottlenecks to allow investors to come into the country.

“We are talking about FCT. One of the best things you can do is tourism. And in that case, the only 5-star hotel we can talk about here is Transcorp Hilton. So, there is no competition, nothing.

Like I said, it is important that we discuss, and people know that something will come out of that discussion. For me as the FCT Minister, my interest is to develop Abuja, to make it more attractive as a tourist centre.

Emefiele to Be Arraigned Today Amidst Fears of His Rearrest Alex Enumah in Abuja There is palpable fear that the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria ( CBN), Mr Godwin Emefiele, would be rearrested today, when he appears before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Emefiele, who had spent over five months in custody was released last week unconditionally by the orders of Justice Olukayode Adeniyi.

The federal government had opposed the bail application argued by Emefiele's lawyer on the grounds that the former CBN boss had a pending charge before Justice Hamza Muazu of the same FCT High Court, but the Justice Adeniyi had ruled that the issue before him was not Emefiele's bail application but the order of the court on his unconditional release.

Although, the arraignment before Justice Muazu was stalled on Wednesday due to the labour strike, however, information had

it that the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) has concluded plans to rearrest Emefiele, at today's arraignment.

According to a source, Emefiele may be rearrested on yet to be ascertained charges when he appears in court today.

Emefiele was first arrested in Lagos on June 10, a day after President Bola Tinubu suspended him from office and was then transferred to Abuja.

The Department of State Service (DSS), which initially arrested him, had refused to release him on bail despite the order of Justice Muazu. He was later arraigned on alleged unlawful possession of firearms in Lagos then alleged corruption charges in Abuja, before he was handed over to the EFCC three weeks ago.

Miffed by the DSS' action, Emefiele then approached the court to challenge his continued detention. Besides he had brought an ex parte application praying the court for his unconditional release pending the hearing and

determination of the motion on notice.

After listening to the submissions in the ex parte application marked: M/122/2023 in a Motion on Notice with the number, FCT/HC/CV/040/2023, Justice Adeniyi on November 2, subsequently ordered the EFCC to immediately release Emefiele or produce him in court on November 6.

The Commission however failed to produce him in court on the next adjourned date, forcing the court to adjourn to November 8, insisting that its orders must be complied with.

Delivering ruling on November 8, the judge had ordered the immediate and unconditional release of Emefiele, adding that, "there must be an end to detention without trial."

The court held that although the federal government had stated that Emefiele would appear in court next week over a pending corruption charge, there was no evidence before it to assure that

he would be arraigned on the said date.

Justice Adeniyi had pointed out that, "the issue is not that the court should admit the applicant to bail" but the enforcement of the court's order of unconditional release made on November 2.

Besides, the court had observed that releasing Emefiele would not stop his arraignment by the federal government.

He subsequently ordered the federal government to release Emefiele to his team of lawyers led by Mathew Burkaa, who must produce him in court for arraignment on November 15, or any other date.

The judge had also ordered that Emefiele should transmit and deposit his travel documents to the court's registrar pending the hearing of the motion on notice or his arraignment before Justice Hamza Muazu of the same FCT High Court.

Emefiele spent 151 days in custody before his release last week.

9

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2023

NEWS

PEBEC'S INAUGURAL MEETING...

L-R: Gombe State Governor, Mohammed Inuwa Yahaya; Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq; Secretary to Federal of Nigeria, George Akume; Vice President, Kashim Shettima; Head of service of the Federation, Folashade Yemi- Essan; Hon. Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola and Hon. Minister of Information & National Orientation, Alh. Mohammed Idris, during the PEBEC inaugural meeting in the State House, Abuja...yesterday

Housing: FG to Upgrade 26 Slums in Nigeria’s Six Regions Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The federal government plans to upgrade 26 slums in the six regions of the country, to improve the living standards of residents and the urban poor, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Mr Ahmed Dangiwa, said yesterday.

Dangiwa, who spoke while delivering his keynote address at the 12th meeting of the National Council on Lands, Housing and Urban Development, in Kaduna State, promised to rewrite the story of housing and urban development in the country.

Stressing that President Bola Tinubu has the vision of making housing a top priority for his government, the minister explained that the ministry’s goal was to implement the ‘most historic’ housing and urban sector

reforms ever witnessed in the country.

This, he said, would be achieved by driving initiatives that would create an enabling environment for easier, safer and profitable private sector investments in the sector.

He stated that the agenda of the current administration was tied to four key presidential priorities, including economic growth and job creation, access to capital, social inclusion and ending poverty.

“The achievement of these targets would require an ‘All of Government’ approach and actions that foster continuous engagement between governments at all levels along with the private sector and relevant international organisations operating in the housing sector,” he added.

He reiterated the plan to establish a national land commission whose work

would be partly to outline clear implementation guidelines for the Land Use Act to chart a new path of effective land administration in the country.

The minister further disclosed government’s readiness to commence phase 1 of the ‘Renewed Hope Cities and Estates’, which he said targets the delivery of 34,500 housing units in 30 states of the federation.

“For the Slum Upgrading Programme, the ministry’s plans to upgrade 26 slums in the six regions of the country, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), to improve the living standards of the slum residents and urban poor by providing key infrastructure and ancillary services.

“To ensure affordability for Nigerians, we have already mapped out the following options which include Rent-toOwn, Public Rental, Mortgage Loans, and where applicable, outright sale,” he explained.

He said Kaduna was one of the first states in the country to adopt and pass into law the Model Mortgage Foreclosure Law (MMFL) which coordinates and promotes housing investments and mortgage development activities.

In his address, the guest of honour, the executive Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, represented by the Commissioner of Housing and Urban Development, Aminu Shagali, informed that the government in its

effort to increase the housing stock came up with a direct construction of 624 affordable housing units.

He added that the state further plans the construction of a total of 222 houses of 1, 2, 3, 4 bedroom terraces as well as duplexes, directly and through partnership.

According to him, the state was in partnership with 52 developers to provide between 20,000 and 30,000 houses which are at about 50 per cent completion.

The governor further expressed the willingness of the state to continue in partnership with the federal government to facilitate the provision of decent and affordable houses to Nigerians, while

also welcoming investors to the state.

In his goodwill message, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Housing, Senator Aminu Tambuwal, pointed out that positive progress cannot not be made in the housing and urban development Sector without funds.

While acknowledging that sourcing funds was a difficult one, he noted that the problem was not unconquerable, given that construction in housing remains a major way of redistributing wealth and should be encouraged.

Tambuwal further assured of the support of the National Assembly in realising the outcomes of the council’s decisions.

Banks’ USSD Debt Owed Telcos APC Teases PDP, Says Opposition Has Lost Its Purpose Hits N200bn, ALTON Reveals Emma Okonji

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The All Progressives Congress (APC), yesterday, teased the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), saying the opposition party lost its purpose.

National Publicity Secretary of the party, Felix Morka, in a statement said in PDP's apprehension, it might lose more governorship or National Assembly against clear legal provisions of the Electoral Act and Constitution.

It said the party has continued to wage attacks calculated to disparage, denigrate and blackmail the nation’s democratic institutions, particularly the judiciary into submission to fulfil its nefarious electoral agenda.

The APC spokesperson, had reacted to an earlier press conference by the PDP Acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, who alleged that APC was plotting to use some "hugely compromised Election Petition Courts" to upturn some of its victories.

Morka said in Damagum's

view, this was tailored towards "systemic emasculation of opposition" and actualisation of an imaginary one-party state.

"PDP's hallucinations about one-party state is understandable only in the context of its unrealised plan to rule Nigeria for 60 years but now seeks to taint APC with its own scripted crude, intolerant, unpatriotic and anti-democratic zealotry.

"What is by far more repugnant, devious and a clear and present threat to our democratic way of life is the PDP relentless and unjustified objurgation of our courts and judges. The PDP has maligned and poured invectives on our judges at every turn since its miserable performance in the general elections.

"When it is not accusing judges of bias or corruption, it is calling for the disbandment of some judicial panels. Yet, the same party has been the biggest beneficiary of the vibrancy and independence of the judiciary since the country’s return to civilian democracy in 1999.”

The unpaid Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) debt, through which the banks are indebted to telecoms operators has accumulated over the years to over N200 billion as at November 2023, up from N130 billion in September this year,

according to the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON).

Chairman of ALTON, Gbenga Adebayo revealed this yesterday in Lagos, while highlighting the many challenges faced by telecoms operators, during a stakeholders’ forum organised by the Nigerian Communications Commission

(NCC).

Adebayo, urged the NCC to quickly intervene in the matter without further delay, as the accumulated debt had started affecting the operations of telecoms operators across networks.

Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, in his opening remarks at the stakeholders’ forum,

promised to deepen investments in the telecoms sector, which he said, had contributed immensely to the GDP growth of the Nigerian economy.

Maida equally promised to work with telecoms operators to improve the quality of service in the telecoms sector, in order to serve the telecoms consumer better.

FG Revises Guidelines for Mining Communities The federal government, through the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development (MSMD) yesterday, launched the revised guidelines for Community Development Agreement (CDA) in the mining sector.

Giving a keynote address at the event, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, said the revised guidelines would give host communities maximum benefits from mining operations without rifts and enable operators meet their obligations to the government.

"The objective is also to ensure the government derives maximum benefits from the exploitation of

our mineral resources. “Today, in the global market, mineral resources are replacing oil. The world is moving from pollutionbased liquid minerals like fossil fuel, hydrocarbons, and the likes to clean energy. Solid minerals constitute clean energy.

“Gold, bauxite, kaolin, especially Lithium that has already earned itself a pride of place in the global economy, we have them in abundance, and the sky is the starting point, if we sanitise the environment of our mining sector operation. A crucial part of that is the launch of this revised CDA guidelines, "the Minister buttressed.

Throwing more light on the

aim of the revised guidelines, the Minister asserted that mining sector operators would make due profits, host communities would also get maximum beneficiation, stressing that the era of government at all levels being shortchanged in taxes and royalties would become a thing of the past.

"The onus falls on us as regulators to play our own part to ensure the enforcement of all thesen guidelines. The host communities must also ensure a free and unfettered environment for smooth operations. The companies, too, must ensure that host communities enjoy the benefits of minerals in the belly of their land. Without

peace, there will be no gain for anybody, "Dr. Alake added.

The Minister commended the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy, and Development for partnering with the ministry to develop the revised guidelines, which he described as up to date and beneficial to all stakeholders.

At the unveiling of the revised guidelines were the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Mary Ogbe, Director, Mines Environmental Compliance (MEC), Mrs. Vivian Okon, Executive Director, Centre for Learning and Strategic Development, Mr. Monday Osasah, amongst others

10

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 17, 2023 •T H I S D AY

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 17, 2023 • T H I S D AY

11

12

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 17, 2023 •T H I S D AY

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 17, 2023 • T H I S D AY

13

14

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 17, 2023 •T H I S D AY

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 17, 2023 • T H I S D AY

15

16

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 17, 2023 •T H I S D AY

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 17, 2023 • T H I S D AY

17

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY NOVEMBER 17, 2023

18

POLITICS

Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com 08033025611 SMS ONLY

Clem Agba: Right Choice for Edo 2024 Guber Seat Allison Abanum writes that former Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Prince Clem Agba, has the capacity and experience to be the next governor of Edo state.

M

any have anchored their political careers on a personal desire to acquire more power, wealth, dominance or attention, sadly this is not as it

ought to be.

As important as politics is to the existence of entire peoples and regions, the political class ought to be constituted of personalities who have over time acquired the relevant skills, experience, desire and track record to deliver positive results in management in both the public and private sectors. Technocrats in every sense of the word, equipped to make lasting impact in society.

One of such people is Prince Clem Agba of Edo state. A personality with a hugely impressive precedence of positive results so far in his journeys in both the public and private sector. An astute technocrat per excellence, whose brilliance and expertise have seen him rise to the topmost levels of management and service firstly in the private sector in one the top multi national companies in the world (Chevron) and then serving as custodian of critical public offices excellently.

It is safe to declare that Prince Agba has proven to be a man with immense understanding of the desires of his people and has demonstrated time and time again an unwavering passion and yearning for the development of Edo state, having served honourably in previous administrations notably as a Commissioner under the Adams Oshiomole administration.

Therefore one would not be faulted to declare that his type of personality fits the bill for what Edo state needs at the helm of affairs moving forward.

Edo state well and truly deserves a true technocrat laiden with the skills and experience that Agba has in his arsenal. Having held critical positions in top government organizations like the Chevron and being a vital cog in the locomotive that propelled many policies and reforms that yielded so many benefits in the oil and gas sector. His excellence surely caught the fancy of so many both within the country and across the globe, earning him very good accolades and recognitions which are all well deserved.

Being able to thrive in such competitive environments and deliver commendable results in many aspects speaks volumes of his capacity both personally and professionally.

Over time Agba has shown forth as someone with deep rooted affiliations to Edo state and its welfare. He has in no way shy away from contributing his own quota to the development of individuals and communities across the state through various mediums of empowerment including healthcare, education, capacity development and the likes.

This sits well with an inate personal principle of encouraging human and capacity building especially the youths of the state.

Mr Agba has convinced many that his ultimate vision is to have the youths assume the much anticipated role of being a vital organ of societal growth and development in many areas.

An unwavering supporter of good and credible governance, one that should be held accountable for its affairs and dealings, he has displayed a 21st century data driven approach to leadership in all the opportunities he has had to do so.

Finding lasting solutions to problems by leveraging on his acquired expertise and core values of collaboration, transparency, accountability and an unwavering desire to serve and deliver.

One of such skills that sets Prince Agba aside from the vast majority of the rest is his excellence in financial management.

Having served as Minister of State for Budget and National planning, he has shown an impressive level of efficiency as regards planning and allotment of assets and resources profitably and anyone would agree that this will definitely come in handy in the

bid to nip in the bud the economic challenges facing Edo State both now and in the future.

His history in financial management predictably will ensure a government model which looks to set up favourable environments for enterprises to thrive and as a result draw all

sorts of investment opportunities to Edo state leading to much needed economic growth and a secured future.

His successful voyages in the private sector looks set to help atrract the right stakeholders and investments as regards infrastructural

development.

Being a sound learner himself and a testament of what proper education offers, it is clear that education and youth development will be at the fore front of his blue print for governance. Empowerment programs, skills acquisition and entrepreneural trainings surely take center stage in his thoughts having been part of successful organisations.

It is safe to say he is no way lost on the benefits of capacity building especially among the youths.

To have risen to such hallowed positions in multinational corporations such as Chevron means he has the right levels of integrity and trustworthiness. This cannot be overlooked as the political sphere in this part of the world is somewhat dominated by personilities lacking greatly in moral values, fairness and transparency.

It is essential to have people who have demonstrated acceptable levels of accountability and integrity in complex roles and situations in government more so as a governor of a state like Edo. Prince Agba ticks most of boxes as the ideal candidate to Captain the Edo ship and sail it to prosperous waters. Leveraging on his immense experience and excellent track records in delivering positive results from previous engagements, he looks the perfect fit for the job.

A strong passion for the growth and development of Edo and its people anchored upon a strong sense of commitment and sense of duty to his people, Edo state stands to benefit a whole lot from his deep well of personal and professional skills and especially considering his unwavering advocacy for good governance.

The good people of Edo state should look no further for the proverbial Prince in shining armor as Prince Agba is right there in plain site and willing to ride to the rescue.

-Abanum writes from Yenagoa

Ekong Sampson: Finding His Bearing in the Red Chamber Etim Etim writes that first-timer Senator Ekong Sampson is adjusting to the onerous task of legislative activism in the National Assembly.

I

finally caught up with Senator Ekong Sampson recently in Abuja. Scheduling a meeting with him is an arduous task given his busy agenda. He represents Akwa Ibom South in the 10th Senate, is the Vice Chairman of Basic & Secondary Education Committee; Vice Chairman of FCT Committee and a member of about 14 other committees, including NDDC and Appropriation.

Although he is a fresh man in the Senate, Sampson is not new to the grounds of the National Assembly. Between 1999 and 2003, he served as a legislative aide to Senator Udoma Udo Udoma, who was then Chairman of the Appropriation Committee; and later, Minister of Budget and National Planning in the first term of the Buhari administration. ‘’Senator Udoma is one of the greatest influences in my life; a role model and teacher.

He taught me a lot on how to develop selfdignity; a sense of self-worth and ability to stay focused’’, Sampson told me as I settled into the couch in his modest apartment.

“Udoma is a delight to work with; very focused and intelligent with a deep grasp of issues’’. Sampson is one of the handful former Senate staffers to end up as a member of the august body. The other is Senator Aminu Tambuwal, immediate past governor of Sokoto, who was an aide to Senator Wali at the same time with Sampson. But this evening, my focus is the Akpabio leadership and why the Senate seems to be in turmoil since he was elected its President on June 13, 2023.

So, I asked him pointedly, ‘’What is it with Akpabio that seems to upset some senators, particularly Ali Ndume? Ndume was on TV

recently saying he is more experienced than the Senate President.

There were even impeachment rumours some weeks ago. Why do they dislike this Senate President?’’

Sampson contemplated his answer for a brief moment. ‘’I don’t think senators do dislike him. The Senate is a mix of divergent interests; a collection of our diversity in one room and is made up of people with strong characters from every part of the country.

What appears as a turmoil to the public is just a manifestation of the strong views that members express unambiguously. It is not an easy place to lead, but Akpabio is doing his best in providing leadership’’.

He paused momentarily. ‘’Aniekan (referring

to the other Senator from his state who actually represents my district) and I will do the best we can to support the Senate President. His success is our success and pride’’.

Sampson was a member of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly for the eight years Akpabio was governor. The two have had a close relationship for a long time, dating back to pre-1999 when Sampson was a lawyer and journalist in Lagos. He started his political career as a councilor and later Chairman of his LGA, before he became House of Assembly member and commissioner, supervising four different ministries.

With a Ph.D in law from the University of Calabar, Sampson is a very brilliant politician, yet self-effacing and disarmingly modest. ‘’I have no police orderly or escort. I drive myself sometimes and I live like an ordinary Nigerian’’, he chimed.

He is the author of the book, ‘’Law and Statesmanship: The Legacy of Sir Udo Udoma’’, published in 1996. Late Sir Udoma, a former justice of the Supreme Court and former Chief Justice of Uganda, is the father of Senator Udoma.

I asked Senator Sampson about the new Prado SUVs that had been acquired for the members of the House of Representatives and the Senate. What sense does it make to spend so much on imported vehicles? Why couldn’t we support Made-in-Nigeria vehicles?

-Etim writes from Abuja NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2023 • T H I S D AY

19

POLITY

Getting Justice, Giving Hope to SGBV Victims Through Hope Renewed Initiative

Oyofo Ahmed Sule

T

hat sexual and gender-based violence has assumed a frightening proportion is an understatement and should be stopped immediately. Women are not punching bags. Children should not be subjected to any form of trauma or maltreatment.

Rather, they deserve maximum protection. It is, therefore, distressing to read or hear of any form of violence unleashed against them, especially as they are defenceless.

However, the good news is there is a flurry of activities involving national and international organizations to tackle the issue. These renewed efforts have attracted Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator (Mrs.) Oluremi Tinubu, with her Hope Renewed Initiative, to confront and conquer this demon.

She declared in a recent Town Hall meeting held at the Lagos Central Senatorial District.

“My advice is that women who are fortunate to rise to a position of power, influence or wealth must invest such in the commonwealth of women.

Rather than join the ‘men’s club’, they must reach out and pull other women along,” stated the Nigerian first lady.

She added, “From the girl child to that young struggling graduate, that lady professional in between jobs, that woman who has to juggle domestic and professional duties and the women out there who badly need just one opportunity to prove that she is capable, truly need our help.

In little or big doses, it does not matter. Just do it. Because out there, women who can and will succeed on merit if given the chance”.

The Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, is also not left out. He gave a flicker of hope by setting up a flurry of activities in that direction.

The two like minds met recently, and there is no doubt that areas of support and collaboration will take the front burner.

What is particular is that the menace has assumed a monstrous proportion and should be stopped immediately. Nothing will satisfy social and political observers more than seeing the implementation of the brilliant ideas expected to eradicate crime within the shortest possible time. Anything that will signal the end of the road for perpetrators and redress for identified victims is welcomed.

This is like a reawakening of our collective consciousness and a wake-up call for everyone to align with this renewed initiative and contribute in any way possible to make the programme one of resounding success. At this point, it is important to expatiate the meaning of SGBV to grasp the true picture of what we are trying to explain. SGBV is the acronym for Sexual and Gender-Based Violence against women, children and, in some cases, men. It is violence committed against a person because of their sex or gender. It is forcing another person to do something against their will through violence, coercion, threats, deception, cultural expectation or economic means.

Although the majority of the victims and survivors are women, girls and boys, men have been known to be also affected. All forms of sexual and gender-based violence, including domestic violence, forced marriages, child marriage, physical violence, rape, molestation, genital mutilation, sexual harassment, intimate partner violence, teenage pregnancy, incest, forced abortion and stalking, violate fundamental human rights. In addition, intentional bodily injury, slapping, punching, choking, kicking, shoving, inappropriately using drugs or physical restraints, denying medical care, forcing alcohol and or drug use, including forced prostitution, are not left out.

Some of the identified causes have been traced to poverty, breakdown of services, conflicts and wars, displacement, and stress at home, especially the days of tension induced by financial pressures.

Some men are known to raise their voices and sometimes flip over in acute financial difficulties, inability to meet intended expenses, increased debts and even unexpected dismissal from employment. In such cases, tempers boil over and may result in an exchange of blows with spouses at home. There are stories of husbands and wives exchanging blows in broad daylight and even dragging themselves to the public domain. Such is the magnitude of fury that can grip uncontrolled rage in most households.

Oluremi Tinubu

When faced with no escape route at home in demanding situations, men could become assailants and do the unthinkable.

But then, these are isolated cases; according to the International Labor Organization, the orientation of a culture or the shared belief within a sub-culture helps define the limits of tolerable behaviour. Social norms about the proper roles of each gender, the man is perceived as aggressive, powerful, unemotional, and acceptance as dominant, while women are perceived as passive, nurturing, submissive, emotionally weak and powerless. This socialisation has resulted in an unequal power relationship. Most cultures do not tolerate women responding when men, perceived as the breadwinners, are talking; they consider that as an affront and, unfortunately, may degenerate into an exchange of fiery blows.

Recently videos have circulated of some men beating their wives to pulp and some rape incidences involving underage. You even hear of gang rape, which often results in murder. Add that to the increasing cases of child marriage with distressing footage of some of the victims trying to escape. You will understand why the initiative of the first lady and the SGBV Unit of the Federal Ministry of Justice should be gabbed with multiple hands, legs, and what have you! In case you do not know, this global pandemic affects women in their lifetime. The numbers are staggering. While 35 per cent of women are known to have experienced either physical or sexual intimate partner violence or the reverse, the most serious cases involving murders of women are also committed by intimate partners. One characteristic of gender-based violence is that it knows no social or economic boundaries and affects women and girls from all socio-economic backgrounds. The issue needs to be addressed in both developing and developed countries. The consequences can be devastating to the victims.

They include partial or permanent disability, poor nutrition, exacerbation of chronic illness, and chronic pain, anger, anxiety, fear, shame, self-hate, self-blame, post-traumatic stress disorder, such as nightmares distressing thoughts. In some cases, it results in HIV/ AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases.

Anita Guerrero from Nicaragua says, “It is frightening to think that you may not get home alive one day as a result of sexual violence.” Oxfam Worldwide has launched the ‘Enough campaign to end violence against women and girls by bringing people of all

genders, ages and backgrounds together to transform the normal; it aims to challenge and change the harmful social norm that justifies abuse to ones that promote gender equality and non-violence saying “let’s stop thinking it is normal; every day, everywhere, all over the world, women and girls face violence; this can be changed; enough to violence against women and girls”. The first lady has set out to do this through her Renewed Hope Initiative.

On October 6, 2023, the First Lady put rhetoric aside and launched this programme to support women, children and youths in the country at the State House. The programme targets vulnerable groups and aims to bring them closer to governance. The first lady disclosed during the launching that the aim was to bring succour and relief to families when fully operational across the 36 states of the Federation and FCT, meaning that better times are here for women.

It is expected that when fully operational, the Hope Renewed Initiative will, amongst others, undertake full-scale recovery and rehabilitation programmes such as campaigns to raise awareness, promote women’s empowerment, challenge gender stereotypes, educate men and women on non-violence and equality topics as well as carry out Rehabilitation programmes for perpetrators and victims.

They will go a step further by encouraging legislation and enforcement of substances and the mandatory adoption of safe and healthy habits. The Hope Renewed Initiative can also leverage a community-based multi-pronged approach and sustained engagement with multiple stakeholders, including civil society organisations and NGOs. They can address the underlying risk factor for violence, which includes social norms regarding the roles and acceptability of violence. Through investment, research, learning and collaboration with relevant stakeholders around the world, the initiative will certainly go a long way towards reducing sexual and gender-based violence. And why not? Nigeria is a signatory to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UNHR) and the Charter of African Human Rights(AHRC), which aim to protect individuals against violence and other actions interfering with fundamental freedom and human dignity.

The 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria recognises entrenched human rights as fundamental in chapter four. It is categorically stated in chapter two of the constitution that the Nigerian State’s social order is founded on the ideals of freedom, equality and justice and that

discrimination on the grounds of sex, religion and ethnic ties, amongst others, is prohibited.

Potential social responses to gender-based violence are most effective when there is a common understanding of the nature and causes of the crime and is addressed from all angles through the participation of multiple sectors in the country. Luckily, the Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Response Unit of the Federal Ministry of Justice is extremely reliable at this juncture.

The HAGF coordinated government actions, laws and policies in response to SGBV cases in Nigeria by establishing the SGBV Response Unit in May 2021, headed by Barrister Yewande Gbola Awopetu. This unit has the following mandate: to review and harmonize laws and policies on SGBV; provide access to justice for SGBV victims survivors through counselling, mediation, facilitation of settlement agreements and provision of all required legal services for victims. It is also to undertake capacity building and training for all legal officers handling SGBV cases. Establishment of prosecution hubs, collation and processing of SGBV data records, reporting, monitoring and evaluation purposes.

Together with the Hope Renewed scheme, they can mount a sustainable fight against the malaise by organising capacity-building for Judges and relevant stakeholders. Once they can effectively promote the rule of law, access to justice, and enhance the criminal pathway to addressing violence against women and girls, then their efforts must be deemed successful.

This is arguably not the time for sentiments and lip services; anyone caught in the act must be punished. It is horrifying that of 24,720 cases reported, only 306 have been prosecuted; others appear to have been forgotten or swept under the carpet! Even now, of the 975 fatal rape cases made known to the public, there is little or no justice for the victims. So, one of the first tasks of the Renewed Hope Initiative and the SGBV Unit of the Ministry of Justice is to create mobile courts hurriedly across the country for speedy prosecution of anyone caught in gender-based violence. Both government organs must coordinate their efforts to improve conditions of service for judicial officers and the police to address the shortage of manpower in the Judicial and Empowerment Agencies.

As an extra boost, women should be given special consideration during recruitment into the force to improve gender balance, and then in line with international standards, they should be equipped with modern gadgets and should be well trained; more women empowerment programmes should be put in place and adequately funded, encourage collaboration with civil societies, non-governmental organizations, as well as members of the public to report cases instantly once they occur. They should also encourage workshops and seminars in urban and rural areas, carry out sensitisation campaigns and widen the same in all 36 states.

They should not neglect the need for more studies in this area to discover the root causes of this malaise. At this point, the Hope Renewed Initiative and the SGBV Unit of the Ministry of Justice are encouraged to work and collaborate with established liberation institutions like the Women At Risk International Foundation (WARIF), the IGP Gender Desk of the Nigeria Police, encourage the speedy designation of special courts for trial of SGBV cases and development and signing of the Practice Direction and Guideline on trial of SGBV cases and auxiliary procedure’ under the Violence Against Persons(Prohibition) Act. They should also consider the innovative use of social media as a transformation tool to change behaviour.

The question now is: should the nation applaud the Hope Renewed Initiative and the SGBV Unit of the Federal Ministry of Justice? At least for taking the initiative, the answer seems to be yes; they have to be encouraged to focus and not lose concentration so that the poor victims and many others are given a sense of belonging. SGBV victims, especially women and girls, deserve all the assistance the government can offer them.

That is a step in the right direction.

By Oyofo Ahmed Sule, Public Affairs Analyst FCT, Abuja.

T H I S D AY

3 20

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 17, 2023

CHARLES NWANAGA contends that the governorship election of November 11 in Imo State did not serve any purpose

ALL EYES ON SUPREME COURT The outcome of the governorship election that held in Imo State on November 11 is instructive.

It tells us that the election should not have held in the first place. The November 11 exercise was unnecessary and a monumental waste of time and resources. Imo did not need that election for the simple reason that the Supreme Court is yet to resolve contentious matters arising from the 2019 governorship election in the state.

Relying on the subsisting tenure of Hope Uzodinma which began on January 15, 2020, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) rescheduled an off-season election for the state for November 11 with the intent to elect someone who will pilot the affairs of the state for the next four years. What INEC has done is within

enough. A certain Uche Nwosu was their undoing.

Nwosu was nominated by both the APC and Action Alliance (AA) as their governorship candidate in that election. On account of this, the Supreme Court disqualified him and the parties he held their tickets from the election on ground of double nomination.

Apparently due to the fact that the court did not take immediate steps to give effect to its judgment, it was railroaded into giving another judgment that contradicted its earlier position. The contradictory judgment was that of January 14, 2020 in which the Supreme Court pronounced Uzodinma as the governor of Imo State based on the election of March 9, 2019. It was baffling because Uzodinma could not have emerged winner in an election

its responsibility. However, the action stands vitiated by already existing issues which render the election redundant.

It should be recalled that the Supreme Court judgment of December 20, 2019 on the March 9, 2019 governorship election in the state is yet to be given effect to. The court ruled on that day that the All Progressives Congress (APC) on whose platform Hope Uzodinma has been laying claim to Imo governorship did not participate in that election. This means by extension that Uzodinma was not a candidate in that election.

In fact, Uzodinma, after his declaration as governor by the Supreme Court expressed surprise that what he thought was a gamble had materialized.

He had said then that he became APC candidate and, subsequently, governor the Ben Johnson way.

Do you still remember Benjamin Sinclair Johnson, the Canadian sprinter who, during the 1987-88 season, held the title of the world’s fastest man by breaking both the 100m and 60m indoor World Records?

After his feat, it became fashionable to brand someone who wants to get to his destination in an extraordinarily fast way as Ben Johnson. Uzodinma was therefore right when he dubbed himself a Ben Johnson by purporting to have rushed to the front row to grab a governorship ticket that was held by someone else. He was also correct to have christened himself after the fastest sprinter when he was catapulted to first position in an election in which he came fourth.

Essentially, Uzodinma’s governorship has no foundation. It was a product of grab and run.

To lend credence to the fact that the leopard never changes its spots, Uzodinma has done the untoward again. He claimed to have won the election in all the 27 local government areas of the state. He is congratulating himself for that. But everybody knows that he did not win the election in a proper way. He still enacted another melodrama.

Voodoo is the name of the game. The more you look, the less you see. Imo does not deserve this unending subversion. This makes the return to the basics necessary.

So, what was the problem with APC and Uzodinma in 2019? The story is straightforward

he did not participate in. The December 20, 2019 judgment of the Supreme Court affirmed that Uzodinma and his party, the APC, did not participate in that election. It is this contradiction that the Supreme Court has set out to resolve on December 5, 2023. Everybody that has respect for democracy and rule of law is looking forward to this date. It is hoped that the court will, on this day, free Imo from all the cobwebs that have been clogging its governorship since 2019.

In the light of the foregoing, will anybody say that the governorship election of November 11 in Imo state served any purpose? One can say without fear of contradiction that it did not. Apart from being a colossal waste in terms of the resources and time deployed to the exercise , the election was a poor advertisement of what an election should not be.

Before November 11, the people of Imo State did not show in any way that an election was afoot. The atmosphere was subdued. There was no excitement. There was no expectation of something new. The air of despondency was most palpable on the day of the election. There was large scale voter apathy, the type never witnessed before in the history of elections in the state.

The poor voter turnout spoke volumes. It showed that the people of the state were interested in anything but the election. Rather than go to election venues, youths chose to play football on empty streets. The elderly either stayed indoors or at best, derided the exercise in their quiet confines.

To make the situation worse, thuggery, brigandage, vote buying, ballot box snatching and other electoral malpractices dogged the exercise.

Votes never counted as those who filed out to vote never saw any result sheets. It was an elaborate charade. The people of Imo State regret it all.

But they have a consolation. The Supreme Court is set to right all the wrongs that have dogged Imo governorship in the past. The people of Imo State and all lovers of democracy are looking forward to December 5. It is hoped that the Supreme Court will, on this day, restore normalcy to Imo governorship. Our eyes are focused on this.

Nwanaga is of the Lower Niger Vanguard

We should be mindful of the opportunities the times are offering us, writes JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA

TODAY’S OPPORTUNITIES AND THE ‘GOOD OLD DAYS’ One of the most life-changing things I learned as an adult is that “human beings are irrational”. Fewer things have changed my understanding of the world than this sentence.

It led me into a whole new world of paying more attention to our species; how we think, how we make judgements and decisions, how we navigate the world and ultimately, why we do the things we do. When I started learning to doubt human rationality, my brain pushed back, until the theory and the practical started to intersect too many times for one to ignore.

Brings me to the “good old days” conversations I have been seeing on X this week. X is Twitter, after it started paying its users for being badly behaved.

I remember the “good old days”. I don’t know how old I was, but I remember wondering why my mum’s crate of soft drinks — we used to call them minerals — sold for N19/crate at the time, instead of N24. This was a question I pondered on because I just didn’t understand why each bottle sold for N1 and then a crate of 24 bottles sold for N19. The “good old days” when colour TVs were rare in homes and many children could only watch movies in the homes of a few privileged neighbours who had video cassette players. Those really were good old days, where power generators were as rare as NEPA’s power supply. Darkness was the norm. These rose-

WLQWHG JODVVHV WKDW DͿRUG XV D QRVWDOJLF YLHZ RI the past can be such powerful escapes at times.

The good old days. Always good in retrospect.

We must be thankful for rosy retrospection.

When the future causes anxiety and the present isn’t palatable, one can always remember the past selectively. That black and white world where things were much cheaper, and everyone FRXOG DͿRUG WKHP DQG WKH WLPHV ZHUH RQO\ but bright and beautiful. The world where we wanted all our leaders to stay, on account of their great deeds and policies and were always sad whenever they were removed by coups.

Rosy retrospection. This rearview mirror that ought to come with a warning, ‘objects are more beautiful the farther behind”. Even though the daily newspapers that captured those good old days make it look like they were far from good, painting the picture of the hunger, tragedy, and pains of the days. Making them look like they are worse than these days. But newspapers have always been wrong. It is why, despite what our papers say today, in the future, these times will be the future’s good old days. And when those days come, those in that future can take a rosy look at these times. You are living in the “good old days”, you just don’t know it yet.

OK. Let’s wake up. Opportunities abound within our country. There is an entire prospect of possibilities being literally built as we speak

in Nigeria. I spent time traveling through Lagos Free Zone (LFZ) – appearing to suggest freedom from the craziness of Lagos - and the Lekki Deep Sea Port. The LFZ holds the promise of what’s possible, another Lagos example for the other subnationals to pay attention to. The Lekki Deep Sea Port already sets up as a shining light for port services in West Africa. We can be so obsessed with the Nigeria we know and see regularly, we are blind to the prospects we aren’t paying attention to.

(DFK SURMHFW RͿHUV KRSH IRU ZKDW·V possible even in our country, collectively, they represent a development path for Nigeria. All I saw at the LFZ and at the Lekki Deep Sea Port were jobs and the prospect of jobs. You’d need about two weeks to clear your cargo at the Apapa Port, however, that same process is completed in 24 hours at the Lekki Deep Sea Port. This is before one speaks to other cost-saving measures, including the time it takes to clear customs ZKLOVW FOHDUHG FDUJR LPPHGLDWHO\ EHQHÀWV from the storage availability and capacity of the LFZ. Often, for all its challenges, we are blinded from seeing what is happening in our country and what’s possible. The LagosCalabar Coastal Highway will be a major value-addition to all the economic and social development currently on-going at that end of Lagos. Nigeria needs new cities; we need new economic hubs. Ibeju-Lekki, Epe et al could be the future of Lagos for instance.

Like I wrote last week, we need to prioritize mass transportation. There is no Industrial Revolution without mass transportation.

There are also examples on the future of SRZHU IRU PDQXIDFWXULQJ 7KH /)= LV RͿ WKH national grid. It relies on power generated from CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) with the PNG (Piped Natural Gas) element of its power generation plan currently in the works. Diesel has to be shaking in its boots, if this becomes the norm across the country.

The model of ownership of the port is also one to explore for other such enterprise in Nigeria. In this case, the Lagos State government, and the federal government (via the Nigerian Ports Authority) share ownership with Tolaram Group and China Harbour Engineering Company – the private establishments owning 75 percent RI WKH FRPSDQ\ 7KLV ZD\ WKH LQH΀FLHQF\ of the public sector allows for the agile SURSRVLWLRQ DQG HͿHFWLYHQHVV RI WKH SULYDWH VHFWRU WR GHOLYHU YDOXH H΀FLHQWO\ Nigeria’s challenge is not that it is not making progress. This country is making progress. Just not enough. The real challenge is that it is not progressing at the speed and scale that’d ensure its population and growth rate aren’t always ahead of the country’s development strides.

In that sense, we need a paradigm shift in our way of thinking and our delivery of development. The norms that got us here are incapable of taking us forward.

Reminiscing on the past that never was will not change our reality either. We must open our eyes to where we are, be mindful of the RSSRUWXQLWLHV WKH WLPHV DUH RͿHULQJ XV DQG then take our destiny in our own hands.

Omojuwa is chief strategist, Alpha Reach/author, Digital Wealth Book

21 4

T H I S D AY

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 17, 2023

EDITORIAL

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

PENSION AND THE INFORMAL SECTOR The micro pension scheme should be marketed aggressively

T

he National Pension Commission (PenCom) Director General, Aisha DahirUmar recently highlighted some of the issues slowing down the adoption of the Micro Pension Plan (MPP) in the country.

Introduced to cater for people in the informal sector of the economy as well as self-employed professionals, it has not attracted the much-needed traction. Although the scheme is voluntary, its mass adoption will be a big boost to the pension reform introduced by the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo to improve the quality of life of Nigerians when they retire from active work.

A vast majority of Nigerians operate in the intended areas of coverage for the MPP. Those targeted include petty traders, members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), members of the National Union of Textile, Garment and Tailoring Workers of Nigeria (NUTGTWN), Keke Napep, Okada Riders Associations, Butchers Associations, workers in the movie and performing arts industry, barbers, shoe shiners, car washers, mechanics, and other workers in the automotive industry. Self-employed professionals such as lawyers and accountants are covered by the MPP as well.

According to Dahir-Umar, the MPP has attracted a little over 100,000 contributors since inception. The overall target population is more than the 10 million currently enrolled on the more popular Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), which is compulsory for HPSOR\HUV ZLWK D PLQLPXP VWDͿ VWUHQJWK RI HLJKW 7KH MPP is voluntary and solely funded by the contributor, unlike the CPS which prescribes that employers and employees should contribute. The Pension Reform Act 2014 also allows employers to bear full responsibility for their employees on their own volition.

understanding the pension system. She also said there are currently no appealing incentives associated with the scheme. Dahir-Umar further said the economic situation in the country, as seen in high unemployment, LQÁDWLRQ DQG ULVLQJ SRYHUW\ OHYHOV KDV VORZHG GRZQ the uptake. The good news, though, is that Dahir-Umar also said PenCom is actively exploring the introduction of incentives, such as health insurance coverage for the MPP participants, to address the challenges. The MPP, she said, remains a vital initiative that PenCom is committed to making more accessible and appealing to a broader spectrum of Nigerians.

We, however, recognise that PenCom, as the regulator and policymaker in the Pension Industry, cannot make the MPP succeed all by itself. The Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) should shoulder the biggest part of the responsibility by marketing the MPP aggressively to the targeted participants. Statistics on the size of Nigeria’s informal sector are quite staggering.

According to various estimates, the informal sector contributes to at least 65 per cent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and provides employment for over 90 per cent of the working population. The PFAs have huge numbers of potential subscribers in plain sight but are probably discouraged by the costs and logistics of marketing or the cultural barriers associated with planning for eventualities in Nigeria. These challenges can be addressed through re-orientation strategies.

The successes PenCom has recorded in the last three years — such as the growth of pension assets from N11.35 trillion in August 2020 to N17.29 trillion in August 2023, the addition of one million new contributors enrolled on the CPS, recapitalisation of the shareholders’ fund of PFAs from N1 billion to N5 billion, and the introduction of the transfer system for Retirement Savings Account (RSA) holders — are quite commendable. But the icing on the cake would be for the MPP to succeed. It if does, there are potentially over 100 million Nigerians that ZLOO XOWLPDWHO\ EHQHÀW 7KHUH FDQ EH QR EHWWHU ZD\ WR empower the people and reduce poverty in the country.

The informal sector contributes to at least 65 per cent of the Gross Domestic Product and provides employment for over 90 per cent of the working population

Dahir-Umar attributed the low adoption of the MPP to challenges within the informal sector related WR DFFHVVLQJ ÀQDQFLDO VHUYLFHV EXLOGLQJ WUXVW DQG

T H I S D AY EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU DEPUTY EDITORS WALE OLALEYE, OBINNA CHIMA MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

T H I S D AY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

Letters to the Editor Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-300 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (750- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with photograph, email address and phone numbers of the writer.

LETTERS TOLERANCE IN AN AGE OF TURBULENCE

As local has become global and global become local in what has become a dizzying but sometimes sickening collision and intersecWLRQ RI GLYHUVLW\ LW KDV EHFRPH HDVLHU WR SLFN RXW WKH ÁDVK SRLQWV RI human existence.

3HRSOH DUH GLͿHUHQW :LWK GLͿHUHQW FXOWXUHV DQG GLͿHUHQW RULHQWDWLRQ SHRSOH KDYH GLͿHUHQW GHPDQGV HYHQ LI WKH DJH ROG WKUHDG RI common humanity unites them all. $V WKH ZRUOG KDV FRQWLQXHG WR HQFRXQWHU GLYHUVH DQG LQÀQLWH possibilities, the need for tolerance has become even more urgent.

People will not always agree on everything because apparently SHRSOH DUH GLͿHUHQW %XW WKHUH LV D QHHG IRU SHRSOH WR WROHUDWH RQH another, even if they won’t always accept one another. ,W LV WKH UHFRJQLWLRQ RI GLͿHUHQFH WKDW FDQ EHFRPH TXLFNO\ GDQgerous if poorly managed that informs the need for tolerance the world over.

This need has a huge historical context.

During apartheid in South Africa, when black people were denied their basic human and political rights, discrimination was the order of the day. Between the colonialists and the natives, distinction became a weapon, as was discrimination.

In 1996, the UN General Assembly (by resolution 51/95) invited UN Member States to observe the International Day for Tolerance on 16 November, with activities directed towards both educational

establishments and the wider public.

What is the need for tolerance today? Written into the identity of the United Nation over 70 years ago, the need to practice tolerance KDV QHYHU EHHQ PRUH DSW 7RGD\ LQ D ZRUOG EXͿHWHG E\ WXUEXOHQFH and change, tolerance remains a critical balancing act.

All over the world, people are more connected thanks to technology. But this does not mean there is more understanding. In fact, the advent and proliferation of technology means that people are increasingly more disconnected and more disillusioned with one another. This disconnect, this disillusionment, has increasingly become more dangerous.

Societies are ever more diverse – but intolerance is growing in many places. Sectarian tensions can be found at the heart of many FRQÁLFWV ZLWK WKH ULVH RI YLROHQW H[WUHPLVP PDVVLYH KXPDQ ULJKWV violations, and cultural cleansing. And the biggest crisis of forced displacement since the Second World War has spawned hatred and xenophobia against refugees and others.

Tolerance is much more than passively accepting the other. It brings obligations to act, and must be taught, nurtured and defended. Tolerance requires investment by States in people, and in the IXOÀOOPHQW RI WKHLU IXOO SRWHQWLDO WKURXJK HGXFDWLRQ LQFOXVLRQ DQG opportunities. This means building societies founded on respect for human rights, where fear, distrust, and marginalization are sup-

SODQWHG E\ SOXUDOLVP SDUWLFLSDWLRQ DQG UHVSHFW IRU GLͿHUHQFHV This is the message of the International Day of Tolerance – reÁHFWHG LQ WKH 81(6&2 'HFODUDWLRQ RI 3ULQFLSOHV RQ 7ROHUDQFH DGopted in 1995. Last year brought to an end the International Decade for the Rapprochement of Cultures (2013-2022), which was led and SURPRWHG E\ 81(6&2 DFURVV WKH ZRUOG WR SURPRWH WROHUDQFH (YHU\ 1RYHPEHU SUHVHQWV D SULFHOHVV RSSRUWXQLW\ WR UHÁHFW RQ the gift that tolerance is in a world that is increasingly on the edge.

(YHU\ 1RYHPEHU DOVR SUHVHQWV DQ RSSRUWXQLW\ WR QXUWXUH DQG SURPRWH WROHUDQFH DV LI LW ZHUH D YHU\ GHOLFDWH ÁRZHU DQG LQ WKH SURcess combat the actions of those who promote hate and intolerance to achieve their aims. Building tolerance means recognizing the mounting threat posed by those who strive to divide. At the root of WKH VSLUDOLQJ FRQÁLFWV ZKLFK XSURRWV OLYHV DQG WXUQV FRPPXQLWLHV upside down is intolerance which promotes the superiority of one people over another, shrinking critical space in the process.

Promoting tolerance in Nigeria means bringing people from different ethnic groups and religions together and fostering peace and harmony between them, so they can always be able to resist those who sow chaos and death.

That is the only way to lasting peace and security.

Ike Willie-Nwobu, ikewilly9@gmail.com

22

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2023 • T H I S D AY

MARKET NEWS A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager.

Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.

An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg.

Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

GUIDE TO DATA: Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 15Nov-2023, unless otherwise stated.

Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or ETF are bought by investors.

Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an investor would have earned on his investment. Money Market Funds report Yield while others report Year- to-date Total Return.

NAV: Is value per share of the real estate assets held by a REIT on a specific date.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD aaml@afrinvest.com Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 818 885 6757 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Afrinvest Equity Fund 286.24 290.06 52.85% Afrinvest Plutus Fund 100.00 100.00 8.81% Nigeria International Debt Fund 342.39 342.39 14.12% Afrinvest Dollar Fund 109.42 109.42 5.72% AIICO CAPITAL LTD ammf@aiicocapital.com Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 13.54% AIICO Balanced Fund 4.78 4.88 40.99% ANCHORIA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED info@anchoriaam.com Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Money Market 100.00 100.00 0.02% Anchoria Equity Fund 182.67 185.04 26.03% Anchoria Fixed Income Fund 1.21 1.21 -1.46% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com info@anchoriaam.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 29.38 30.26 33.88% ARM Discovery Balanced Fund 645.66 665.13 23.87% ARM Ethical Fund 53.40 55.01 18.36% ARM Eurobond Fund ($) 1.17 1.17 3.69% ARM Fixed Income Fund 1.15 1.15 3.66% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 9.22% ARM Short Term Bond Fund 1.06 1.06 2.10% AVA GLOBAL ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED info@avacapitalgroup.com Web: www.avacapitalgroup.com; Tel 08069294653 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Fund 100.94 100.94 11.06% AVA GAM Fixed Income Naira Fund 1,121.78 1,121.78 4.75% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund N/A N/A N/A AXA Mansard Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED info@capitalexpressassetandtrust.com Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CEAT Fixed Income Fund 2.21 2.21 6.72% Capital Express Balanced Fund(Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) 2.94 3.02 31.59% CARDINALSTONE ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfunds@cardinalstone.com Web: www.cardinalstoneassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 (1) 710 0433 4 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CardinalStone Fixed Income Alpha Fund N/A N/A N/A CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Paramount Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Women's Investment Fund N/A N/A N/A CHD Nigeria Bond Fund N/A N/A N/A CHD Nigeria Dollar Income Fund N/A N/A N/A CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 8.29% Cordros Milestone Fund 160.57 161.61 25.04% Cordros Fixed Income Fund 106.17 106.17 10.03% Cordros Halal Fixed Income Fund 108.43 108.43 11.37% Cordros Dollar Fund ($) 113.60 113.60 6.19% CORONATION ASSETS MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com, Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 1.00 1.00 10.54% Coronation Money Market Fund 1.14 1.15 1.65% Coronation Balanced Fund 1.36 1.36 0.24% Coronation Fixed Income Fund EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfundng@ecobank.com Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A N/A N/A N/A EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B N/A N/A N/A EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A EMERGING AFRICA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@emergingafricafroup.com Web:www.emergingafricagroup.com/emerging-africa-asset-management-limited/, Tel: 08039492594 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Emerging Africa Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.96% Emerging Africa Bond Fund 1.09 1.09 9.55% Emerging Africa Balanced Diversity Fund 1.25 1.25 26.06% Emerging Africa Eurobond Fund 106.60 106.60 5.67% FBNQUEST ASSETS MANAGEMENT LIMITED invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Bond Fund 1524.55 1524.55 11.58% FBN Balanced Fund 255.70 257.87 38.73% FBN Halal Fund 131.54 131.54 12.91% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 10.62% FBN Dollar Fund 122.79 122.79 7.39% FBN Smart Beta Equity Fund 232.46 235.40 53.96% FBN Specialized Dollar Fund 110.45 110.45 9.42% FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED fcmbamhelpdesk@fcmb.com Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 8.17% Legacy Debt Fund 3.56 3.56 -0.47% Legacy Equity Fund 2.63 2.68 31.31% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.32 1.32 4.59% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral Balanced Fund 5,387.12 5,427.67 3206.37% Coral Income Fund 3,956.32 3,956.32 752.76% Coral Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 1122.58% FSDH Dollar Fund 1.19 1.19 5.94%

GUARANTY TRUST FUND MANAGERS LIMITED enquiries@investment-one.com Web: www.gtcoplc.bank; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Guaranty Trust Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Guaranty Trust Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A Guaranty Trust Equity Income Fund (VEIF) N/A N/A N/A Vantage Dollar Fund (VDF) - June Year End N/A N/A N/A LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fincon@lotuscapitallimited.com Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.76 1.79 14.77% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,197.85 1,197.85 9.49% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD info@meristemwealth.com Web: www.meristemwealth.com/funds/; Tel: +2348028496012 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Meristem Equity Market Fund 16.80 16.94 44.68% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 11.50% NORRENBERGER INVESTMENT AND CAPITAL MANAGEMENT LIMITED enquiries@norrenberger.com Web: www.norrenberger.com, Tel: +234 (0) 908 781 2026 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Norrenberger Islamic Fund (NIF) 103.17 103.17 11.87% Norrenberger Money Market Fund (NMMF) 100.00 100.00 11.54% Norrenberger Dollar Fund (NDF) ($) 102.68 102.68 11.18% PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD info@pacassetmanagement.com Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund 2.14 2.18 36.10% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 11.93 12.12 7.47% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 12.84% PACAM Equity Fund 2.13 2.16 50.06% PACAM EuroBond Fund 128.61 131.56 15.40% SCM CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED info@scmcapitalng.com Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SCM Capital The Frontier Fund N/A N/A N/A SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD investments@sfsnigeria.com Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.10 1.10 10.05% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD assetmanagement@stanbicibtc.com Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund 4,713.85 4,751.47 39.05% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 255.27 255.27 8.36% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 1.95 1.97 55.56% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 349.07 349.20 11.50% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 367.35 371.73 57.27% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 10.12% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 17,278.97 17,491.87 58.27% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.45 1.45 12.33% Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund 127.25 127.25 8.84% Stanbic IBTC Enhanced Short-Term Fixed Income Fund 124.53 124.53 17.06% Stanbic IBTC Absolute Fund 4,947.67 4,947.67 16.30% Stanbic IBTC Aggressive Fund 5,041.49 5,104.11 81.33% Stanbic IBTC Conservative Fund 5,149.76 5,163.96 35.20% UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD unitedcapitalplcgroup.com Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 01-6317876 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Equity Fund 1.26 1.27 37.64% United Capital Balanced Fund 1.74 1.75 33.89% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.34 1.35 25.09% United Capital Sukuk Fund 1.17 1.17 11.64% United Capital Fixed Income Fund 1.93 1.93 6.88% United Capital Eurobond Fund 123.50 123.50 5.57% United Capital Global Fixed Income Fund 1.07 1.07 8.36% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 9.72% Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Balanced Strategy Fund 18.14 18.34 30.89% Zenith ESG Impact Fund 21.57 21.80 36.49% Zenith Income Fund 25.21 25.21 7.02% Zenith Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD funds@vetiva.com Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund 7.28 7.38 80.51% Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund 11.44 11.54 94.98% Vetiva Griffin 30 Exchange Traded Fund 25.41 25.61 43.45% Vetiva Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 9.95% Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund 27.83 28.03 39.07% Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund 147.83 149.83 -6.26%

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

127.59 55.79 101.33 9.88

12.12% 5.22% -13.49%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

20.91 436.00 550.00 22.06 30.62

23.11 436.00 550.00 22.16 30.72

41.81% 238.72% 445.36% 50.92% 82.14%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

N/A

N/A

Fund Name

SFS REIT Union Homes REIT Nigeria Real Estate Investment Trust UPDC REIT

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS Fund Name Lotus Halal Equity Exchange Traded Fund SIAML Pension ETF 40 Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund MERGROWTH ETF MERVALUE ETF

I N F R AST R U CT U R E F U N D Fund Name Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund

The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund manager’s website and FMAN’s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only.

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2023

23

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET

A S

A T

REPO

Group Business Editor Eromosele Abiodun Email oriarehu.eromosele@thisdaylive.com

08056356325

N O V E M B E R

S & P INDEX

1 6 , 2 0 2 3

S & P INDEX

EXCHANGE RATE

OPR

11.25%

CALL

19.12%

INDEX LEVEL

611.31%

1/4 TO DATE

-0.07%

N795.28/ 1 US DOLLAR*

OVERNIGHT

11.50%

1-MONTH

16.25%

1-DAY

0.03%

YEAR TO DATE

0.48%

*AS AT MONDAY, JULY 24, 2023

3-MONTH

15.75%

MONTH-TO-DATE

-0.7%

Yuletide: NAMA Decries Inadequate Landing Aids as Operators Fear Harmattan Induced Flight Disruption Chinedu Eze As Nigerian airlines prepare for increased air passenger traffic during the Christmas holidays, which is the busiest season in the year, they have expressed the fear of massive flight disruptions due to the inclement harmattan weather.

This is as the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), acknowledged that many airports in the country have not been calibrated to know the efficiency level of the landing equipment and instruments.

In the same vein, the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMET), Wednesday, warned of an approaching dust haze occasioned by strong winds in some parts of the country.

The agency said some parts of Katsina, Kano, Nguru, Jigawa, Bauchi, Gombe, Potiskum and Maiduguri would by yesterday begin to experience deterioration in horizontal visibility.

It also stated that the dust haze is expected to move southwards within the same period.

Domestic airlines that have increased their frequencies to certain airports, which they expect to have influx of travellers during the Yuletide, are worried that they might face the same weather challenges they had faced the previous years during the Christmas period.

This is made worse by the fact that some airports in the country have poor landing aids, which

prompted some of the facilities to be downgraded and some of them may not offer flight services beyond daylight period, known as Visual Flight Rules.

In the previous years, harmattan spewing dust haze had forced airlines to cancel their flights and at certain days they resorted to operating very early in the morning and evening when visibility had improved.

On calibration of airport instruments and equipment, the Managing Director, NAMA, Mohammed Odunowo, explained that the agency had trained its own personnel to carry out the calibration exercise but currently the officers that conduct the exercise are foreigners, but the aircraft used

for the calibration is owned by the agency.

Out of the 32 airports in Nigeria, only four were calibrated by NAMA and these are the four international airports in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Kano.

Odunowo said: “When it comes to inspections for flight calibration, we engaged two pilots and 10 engineers that we sent for training in the US and the UK and in Germany. So, they have done the training, they are doing the on-the-job training, that is practical flying and flight inspection of the equipment. And I said also that they have graduated into routine or regular flight calibration.

“But on flight commissioning, we have the next phase of calibration

with our technical partners from UK that are training them. They will roundup flight commissioning in November when we do the next round of flight calibration.

They would have gotten enough hours for them to be able to standalone for both flight calibration and commissioning. And I mentioned the airports that were due was Anambra, Bayelsa and Asaba, just one component of their ILS (Instrument Landing System), which is the flight slope, which has been done. So that is that. So, we actually have indigenous team doing the calibrations and just due for flight commissioning by November”.

Odunowo added that the agency was also constrained by funding, since it exited from the federal

government budget, which hitherto funded its capital projects, adding that the airports owned by the state governments ought to show more financial commitment to the agency.

“The agency was exited from the federal government budget last year. That means NAMA has no intervention whatsoever from FGN. Before now, every year, the federal government might do an intervention by way of maybe funding a special project. And that comes in from the federal government budget. We are 100% self-funded, but interventions used to come from the federal government on special projects that are beyond the agency.

The story continues online on

www.thisdaylive.com

NORDIC NIGERIA CONNECT…

L-R: Vice President and Head of West Africa, Arla Foods, Anna Mansson; Managing Director, Arla Foods Nigeria, Mr. Peder Pedersen; Chief Executive Officer, Norwegian-African Business Association, Mrs. Mathilde Emilie Thue; Regional Director, West Africa & Transport Industry Lead-Africa Business Sweden, Ms. Anthonia Adenaya-Huard; Deputy Governor, Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; Minister for Development Cooperation and Global Climate Policy, Denmark, Mr. Dan Jargensen and Minister of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani during the 2023 edition of Nordic Nigeria Connect Conference held in Lagos… recently

Dangote Seeks Greater Expansion of Trade, Investments in Africa The President/CE of the Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote has called for greater integration of African economies and expansion of trade and investments across the continent to stimulate growth and create employment opportunities.

Speaking at the Intra-African Trade Fair 2023 held Cairo, Dangote, who was represented by the Group Executive Director, Stakeholder Management and Government Relations, Ahmed Mansur expressed commitment

to participating and supporting both the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) and the Intra-African Trade Fair.

According to him, “The Dangote Group is one of the largest conglomerates in Africa with investments in several sectors and across 14 countries in Africa. The integration of African economies and the expansion of trade and investments within the continent is therefore extremely important to our group because it provides

opportunities for continuous growth and expansion. This is why we support the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) and indeed the Intra-African Trade Fair.

“We believe that both the AfCFTA and the IATF are important milestones in the trajectory of Africa’s economic growth and development and we as a major stakeholder in that development are therefore committed to participating and supporting both the AfCFTA

and the Intra-African Trade Fair.”

His comments lent credence to the show of strength displayed by the various Dangote Business Units which stormed Egypt to showcase the remarkable products and services which have become household names across the continent.

The Business Units included Dangote Cement PLC, Dangote Sugar PLC and Dangote Packaging Limited (formerly Agrosacks), and some officials of the Branding &

Communications Department of Dangote Industries Limited.

Dangote is a major sponsor and event partner of this year’s Trade Fair, organised by Afreximbank.

Many participants from various organisations across Africa and beyond also thronged the Dangote stand to obtain information and seek possible collaboration with the Group and the various business units.

Also speaking on the sidelines of the event which drew interested

participants from across Africa and beyond, Mansur affirmed that Dangote, which is one of the event partners, has a responsibility to help promote entrepreneursip and development in Africa; reason why the group has its presence in around 14 countries across the continent, and why it is collaborating and participating at the highest level of the IATF 2023.

The story continues online on

www.thisdaylive.com

M A R K E T D ATA A S AT T H U R S D AY, N O V E M B E R 1 6 , 2 0 2 3 BONDS Change Updated Time DESCRIPTION Price Yield (%) ^13.53 23-36, November 101.40 12.14 MAR-2025 00 2, 2023 ^12.50 22-12, November 99.00 13.00 JAN-2026 00 2, 2023 ^16.2884 November 108.14 13.23 -1,00 17-MAR-27 2, 2023 ^13.98 23November 99.81 14.02 -6,00 FEB-2028 2, 2023 ^14.55 26November 98.98 14.82 -5,00 APR-2029 2, 2023

BILLS

OTC F X F U T U R E S

CPS

MATURITY

Discount Yield

NTB 26-Oct23 NTB 9-Nov23 NTB 7-Dec23 NTB 25-Jan24

1.80

1.80

Change (%) Updated Time November 0.00 2, 2023

MATURITY

2.57

2.57

November 0.00 2, 2023

3.92

3.94

November 0.00 2, 2023

3.50

3.53

November 0.00 2, 2023

JULI CP II 25-OCT-23 ZEDC CP I 17-NOV-23 NSDL CP IIA 22-NOV-23 MTNN CP V 23-NOV-23

NTB 8-Feb24

4.39

4.45

November 0.00 2, 2023

NSDL CP IIB 23-NOV-23

Change Time Discount Yield (%) November 0.00 2, 16.95 17.00 2023 November 14.71 14.89 0.00 2, 2023 November 19.25 19.60 0.00 2, 2023 November 11.27 11.39 0.00 2, 2023 19.24

19.60

November 0.00 2, 2023

CONTRACT Current TENOR Contract Rate ($/₦) (MONTH) NGUS OCT 1 – 30 2024 NGUS NOV 2 – 27 2024 NGUS DEC 3 – 24 2024 NGUS JAN 4 – 29 2025 NGUS FEB 5 – 26 2025

Date

November 2, 2023 November 2, 2023 November 2, 2023 November 2, 2023 November 2, 2023

24

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2023 ˾ T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD

AIR WATCH

NiMET May Seek Partnership to Boost Funding Chinedu Eze The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) is contemplating partnering with the private sector to make more funds available at its disposable; so that it would be able to effectively carry out its activities.

The Director General of NiMET, Prof. Mansur Matazu, stated this in Abuja recently at the first FranceNigeria meteorological seminar and business meetings.

According to him, the twin blight of hike in conducting meteorological business and increasing staff attritional due to inadequate remuneration (and many other challenges) were urgent matters that must be addressed to sustain

weather forecasting.

He lamented that in Nigeria, the government’s funding of meteorological activities such as instrumentation, new technologies, equipment, welfare, communication, and data exchange were grossly inadequate.

As a panacea, the NiMET boss canvassed for a deepened Public Private Partnership arrangement that is sustainable.

He said: “As we all know, the world economies are struggling due to various challenges around the globe, including natural and man-made disasters, and the fact that most countries are yet to stabilise due to the devastating COVID-19 experience.

“As a Service Provider, NiMET, in line with its establishment mandate, continues to promote and implement activities in support of national socio-economic development across all sectors of the Nigerian economy,” Matazu said.

He commended the Management of Business France Nigeria (the commercial department of the French Embassy), and Prométéo, the French Meteorology & Hydrology Association, the Management and Staff of NiMet, the Conference Organising Committee, for the important meeting, which is the first of its kind between Meteorological Community in Nigeria and in France.

A I R WATCH

As Dana Air Marks 15 Years of Schedule Operations

Ethiopian Airlines Set to Order 67 Boeing Jets Ethiopian Airlines, the largest and leading aviation group in Africa, and its longstanding partner Boeing, have announced plans to order 11 787 Dreamliner and 20 737 MAX airplanes with an opportunity for 15 and 21 additional jets, respectively, totaling 67 Boeing Jets.

The agreement, signed by Ethiopia’s national carrier at the Dubai Airshow, represents the largest-ever purchase of Boeing airplanes in African history.

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, said: “We are pleased to announce that Ethiopian Airlines has reached a deal with Boeing to place a firm order for 31 ultra-modern airplanes, with opportunity for 36 additional jets.

“This order will enable us to modernize and increase our fleet in support of Ethiopian Airlines’ growth plan and our Vision 2035 Strategy. Through this deal, we have solidified our decades-old exemplary business

partnership with Boeing. The 787 Dreamliner and 737 MAX demonstrate Ethiopian Airlines’ environmentally conscious decisions and its commitment to serve passengers with the latest technologically advanced airplanes.”

Ethiopian is ordering the 787-9 variant, part of a Dreamliner family that reduces fuel use and emissions by 25 per cent compared to the airplanes it replaces. The carrier is also adding the 737-8 model, which reduces fuel use and emissions by 20% and creates a 50 per cent smaller noise footprint compared to the airplanes it replaces. Both families bring better environmental performance and passenger comfort to their respective markets.

The new commitment positions Ethiopian Airlines to further strengthen and diversify its fleet, which currently includes more than 80 Boeing jets.

Ethiopian operates Africa’s

largest Dreamliner fleet with a mix of 787-8s and 787-9s. The new 737 MAX order, which will grow the airline’s backlog for the fuel-efficient jet to 50, will be posted on Boeing’s Orders & Deliveries website when finalized.

Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines also agreed to work together to provide cabin modification services for the carrier’s existing 787 Dreamliners.

The comprehensive retrofits will enhance the passenger experience with advanced in-flight entertainment and new seats in all cabins, including lie-flat business-class seats from Boeing joint venture Adient Aerospace.

Boeing Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing, Brad McMullen, said: “Ethiopian Airlines continues its leadership as one of Africa’s preeminent airlines with this landmark commitment to expand their 787 and 737 MAX fleets.

Emirates Orders More B777Xs in $52bn Expansion Plan Middle Eastern carrier, Emirates, has unveiled an agreement for 90 additional Boeing 777X twinjets, and a revised 787 deal, while its partner airline Flydubai is branching into widebody operations with 30 787-9s.

Flight Global reported that Emirates values its part of the order – disclosed on the first day of the Dubai air show – at $52 billion.

It comprises 55 additional 777-9s, which will be delivered from 2025, plus 35 of the smaller 777-8 which will start arriving in 2030.

Prior to the deal the airline had 115 777Xs on order, part of a 200-widebody backlog which also included 30 787-9s, five 777 freighters, and 50 Airbus A350-900s.

Emirates Group Chief, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, while speaking at the event, said the carrier would be “one of the launch customers” for the 777-8.

He adds that Emirates is “updating” its previous 787 order.

The Dubai-based operator had committed to 40 787-10s a few years ago, before rejigging the deal to take 30 787-9s instead.

But Al Maktoum said the airline will have 35 B787s, comprising 15 787-10s – revisiting its earlier intention to take the largest variant – and 20 787-8s, opting for the smallest model.

He said Emirates, as a result, will have 295 widebody aircraft on order,

including 205 777Xs. To power the 777Xs, the carrier is signing for 202 additional General Electric GE9X engines.

Al Maktoum said the B777 is “the centre of Emirates’ strategy to connect cities on all continents” from Dubai.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes Chief, Stan Deal ,said the agreement would extend the Boeing 777X programme and adds that the 787 is an “important element” of the overall package.

Emirates has a close partnership with Flydubai – including an extensive codeshare and co-operation pact – and this was illustrated by the decision by the two carriers to hold a joint event.

PalmPay Wins at Nigerian Marketing Awards Emma Okonji Leading Nigerian Fintech, PalmPay has won several awards at the just concluded Nigerian Marketing Awards, which held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The awards include Financial Institution of the Year Award, Best Use of Social Media Award, and Brand Manager of the Year Award that was presented to Kevin Olumese.

The Nigerian Marketing Awards recognises marketing excellence in Nigeria. It seeks to reward and celebrate outstanding brands, personalities and organisations in the Nigerian marketing industry.

The awards are endorsed by the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Association of

Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN), National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN), Outdoor Advertising Association of Nigeria (OAAN), and Experiential Marketers Association of Nigeria (EXMAN).

Speaking after receiving the awards, Senior Marketing Manager, PalmPay, Kevin Olumese said: “The awards are a testament to the many giant strides of the brand and evidence of the hardworking team at PalmPay, which includes employees, partners, agents and merchants. It’s an honour to receive these awards because it was contested with phenomenal brands in Nigeria.”

Since the launch of PalmPay in Nigeria in 2019, the Fintech company has been committed to

driving economic empowerment in Nigeria. Through its secure, user-friendly, and inclusive suite of financial services, PalmPay brings top-tier products into the pockets of everyday Nigerians.

“With this, we drive financial inclusion. The platform has grown to over 30 million app users and over 1.1 million businesses, with 600,000 merchants and 500,000 agents as part of its cashless payment ecosystem. The company has disclosed $140 million of funding. PalmPay offers money transfers, bill payments, credit services, and savings on its app and via its mobile money agents.

The PalmPay app is available on Google Play Store and iOS App Store in Nigeria and Ghana, with more markets going live in 2023,” Olumese further said.

Chinedu Eze Given the general adage that Nigerian airlines’ average life span is 10 years, every airline always recognise that a milestone has been achieved whenever it clocks 10 years.

Last week Dana Air marked its 15 years of existence as schedule commercial operator and those behind the airline have every reason to clink glasses in celebration.

It is on record that Dana Air rose from the deep valley of mishap to reckoning and defied predictions by recording high load factor weeks after resuming flight service, contrary to projections of industry pundits that no one would patronize it.

Dana Air started operation in November 2008 and since then it has carried over 36 million passengers with medium fleet of seven variant of Boeing aircraft and one Learjet for charter services.

Dana Air is one of the oldest operating airlines in Nigeria today after Aero Contractors and Overland Airways. Its contemporary, Afrijet Airlines went under after few years and around the same period was the establishment of Discovery Air which barely operated for two years.

Aero Contractors remains the oldest schedule commercial airline still operating today and it is due to resilience and good planning that enabled Dana Air to join it along with Overland Airways.

The airline unique selling point is its in-flight service. It is reputed to have smart cabin crew known for respectability and humility in the way they attend to passengers. That is what marked the airline out in addition to its good on time performance.

It is Dana Air’s enviable in-flight service that won the airline loyal customers who stick to it at all seasons.

The airline has also garnered awards over the years for its good performance. It has won a series of awards for nationalistic and broad-based Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), aviation excellence, customer service, and was unveiled among 100 Most Respected Companies in Nigeria by Business DAy research unit in 2016.

The airline is reputed to have pioneered 24/7 customer service in Nigeria and WhatsApp booking to underscore its commitment to ensuring contactless booking for customers during the COVID-19 pandemic social distance rules.

It has also weathered the storm and so many challenges and it is the first Nigerian airline to have undergone operational and financial audits with the the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and had passed these audits overtime Head of Communication and spokesman of the airline, Kingsley Ezenwa said the airline has buffeted through the odds, the myriads of challenges that confront Nigerian carriers and has developed resilience over the years.

It has also significantly improved its safety culture and made customer satisfaction the focus of its operation.

“Dana Air’s vision is to be recognised and respected as Nigeria’s most reliable and customerfriendly airline and her mission is to earn the loyalty and respect of our customers by consistently demonstrating our commitment to service, and providing affordable regional air transport services that focus on innovation, quality and service excellence,” he said.

Ezenwa said the airline is determined to abide

and follow standards recommended practices and to strictly adhere to the rules as enunciated by NCAA. “Dana Air is resolute in adhering to globally recognised safety standards and it is consistently reviewing its products and services to offer superior options aimed at passenger comfort, and safety.

Dana Air has grown and varied its fleet from two from inception in 2008 to eight and remains determined to consolidate its route network in Nigeria while engaging aircraft manufacturers like Boeing recently for fleet expansion support.

“Dana Air as a proudly Nigerian brand has shown massive commitment to Nigeria’s economy with its constant support to the Nigerian Economic Summit Group. The airline also showed great interest in growing Nigeria’s aviation by carrying out part of its maintenance at a homegrown MRO - 7 star global hanger pending its desire to set up its MRO in Nigeria,” Ezenwa said.

He added that Dana Air has also shown great commitment to local content policy by employing and training more Nigerian pilots, engineers and dispatchers while supporting finishing school training for young Nigerians passionate about aviation.

“Dana Air, like few others, have crossed the 10 year lifespan syndrome for local Nigerian carriers and is still waxing stronger with a decade and half of operations in Nigeria’s very harsh aviation industry,” he added.

It is also good to observe that besides a brief foray into Accra, Ghana, Dana Air has remained a domestic operator and has proved that an airline could only operate locally and survive and make profits.

Industry stakeholder and Secretary of Aviation Round Table (ART), Olu Ohunayo, told THISDAY that Dana Air went through trying periods and survived due to the airline’s commitment and dexterity, effectively managing its equipment and efficiently administering the airline for the past 15 years.

“I congratulate the Dana Air management. I give it to them. They are the most resilient in the industry at the moment, considering what they have gone through and they are still standing.

Other airlines that have gone through that have stopped flying, but Dana Air came out resilient and maintained the same fleet of aircraft and were able to fly successfully and safely.

“I am a fan of their over the wing seat. I love the seat there and I always ask for the seat anytime I fly with Dana Air. I congratulate them. They look like an airline that can transform into hybrid carrier of traditional and low-cost variant. They have the potential by virtue of the capacity of their aircraft and in keeping one type of aircraft so far. They should look at that window of a traditional carrier and low cost carrier,” Ohunayo said.

A regular traveller who patronises Dana Air said he prefers the airline because it is always pocket friendly, most often it is on time and he enjoys the friendliness and at the same time business like disposition of the cabin crew.

“I have been travelling by air in Nigeria for over 20 years and I know the characteristics of our airlines. I have always been a fan of Dana Air. What attracted me first is the fact that relatively their fares are okay. What I usually do is to make sure that I buy my ticket in time. I usually buy ticket a week before and it is always affordable,” he said.

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2023

25

BUSINESSWORLD

AVIATION

Of Nigerian Airlines and International Destination Challenges Nigerian airlines have over the years, faced with daunting challenges in their efforts to successfully operate international destinations in a market dominated by global carriers, writes Chinedu Eze

O

n Monday, there was a virile report about how Saudi Arabia cancelled the visa of all the 264 passengers airlifted by Nigeria’s major carrier, Air Peace, on arrival in Jeddah from Kano and insisted that the airline should return them back to Nigeria. It later allowed 87 passengers to remain and insisted 177 should follow the Air Peace flight back to Nigeria.

Days after the incident, Saudi Arabia authorities did not categorically state why those visas were cancelled, a development that compelled people to embark on guess work and speculations as to why the Arab nation cancelled the visas.

What became very worrisome was the fact that during passenger processing, all the passengers who checked into the flight went through Advanced Passengers Prescreening System (APPS), which were also monitored by the Saudi Arabia authorities before the flight left Nigeria. What this means is that the Saudi authorities knew the passengers were coming to their country and the type of visa that they had.

Some industry observers postulated that what happened was a strategy to discourage the airline from operating to the destination because since it started the operation it has been recording high load factor.

The consequence of the action by Saudi Arabia was that passengers literally deserted the Nigerian carrier because of the uncertainty that could surround the visa status of those who travelled with the airline.

In fact, the flight scheduled for the following day (Tuesday), out of 290 passengers that booked the flight, 200 cancelled their ticket and only 90 flew to Jeddah with Air Peace. Those who would travel with the Saudi Arabia national carrier, Saudia would obviously not have visa issues.

Travel expert, Ambassador Ikechi Uko, said what happened was not aviation problem, but national identity problem, which needs to be resolved urgently. He remarked that Saudi Arabia might not react the same way if they were dealing with another country. So, it is a national issue.

“We have national identity problem that needs to be addressed urgently,” he said.

NIGERIAN CARRIERS NOT PROTECTED Industry observers said there had been a long history of Nigerian airlines being made victims of aeropolitics, whereby other countries

use diplomatic strategies, high charges and stringent policies to drive away Nigerian airlines from their routes in order to protect their own airlines. This anti-competitive strategy successfully works against Nigerian carriers because, according to industry observers, Nigerian authorities do not fight back, except on few occasions and many Nigerian airlines, including the national carrier, the defunct Nigeria Airways, had suffered from the anti-competitive strategy.

The Managing Director of Flight and Logistics Solutions Limited, Amos Akpan, recalled similar incidents against Nigeria airlines and said that United Arab Emirates (UAE) refused issuing visas to Nigerians and it caused Air Peace to shut down its flights on the route. South Africa delays/ limits issuance of visas to Nigerians and this caused Air Peace to shut down flights on the route, but now reviewed to operate sparse frequencies.

“United Kingdom gives excuses that slots are not available for Air Peace at Heathrow airport. Air Peace will choose Gatwick or wait for UK aviation authorities to sort out slots availability at Heathrow,” he said.

According to him, “Reciprocity does not fit in this scenario. The reason is because Saudis, South Africans, British, Emiratis do not fly in and out of Nigeria in numbers that would sustain one Boeing-777 payload on a once a week flight operation in and out of Nigeria. But Nigerians would fill a B-777 daily on these routes 365 days per year. The same analogy is applicable

to cargo as payload though not in same quantity/frequencies.

“We import a lot from these countries and we export almost zero to them. This analysis explains the dilemma of Nigerian government officials when it comes to application of the principle of reciprocity.

It’s the Nigerian travelers that get limited when the airlines from these countries are restricted from flying this route. It’s the Nigerian travelers that pay highest fares when fewer international airlines ply our routes causing excess demand for few supplies of seats because when demand is higher than supply the price increases.”

Akpan advised on the solution and said that government should partner with airlines they chose to designate to a foreign country.

“For example, support Air Peace until they get the Saudi route stabilized. Go through the diplomatic manoeuver with Air Peace.

Find out the financial guarantees required

by Air Peace to sustain their operations on the route. Ensure strict oversight on safety, corporate governance, and customer satisfaction. Deliberately dedicate three years of support to help Air Peace development strategies to serve Nigerians on the route.

When our airline is messed up or if it fumbles in international arena, it’s Nigeria’s image and brand that is ridiculed. This revocation of visas by Saudi government ridicules Nigeria not Air Peace.

“Government must simultaneously invest in infrastructures that would make one hub airport in Nigeria. One airport in Nigeria

must have transit facilities and flight frequencies that cater for 70% of travellers in and out of the West African region. Initiate a propaganda of fly Nigerian airlines on the route they are available,” he said.

Akpan also warned that Nigeria must not delude herself that other countries would help them develop their aviation industry.

“They can only exploit our market using lofty PowerPoint presentation of the gains of partnership. You are only useful if working with you helps them meet their target percentage of contribution to the GDP of their national economy from their aviation sector. What is our own desired target from our aviation sector in 5/10/20/50years,” Akpan asked.

He acknowledged that these foreign airlines would lose huge revenue for not operating flights on Nigeria route but not compared to the impact on Nigerian travellers who would pay higher fares or travel through neighboring countries.

EXPLOITATIVE FARES THISDAY investigation revealed that fares charged by foreign airlines in Nigeria are the highest in West and Central Africa. What is happening currently is that Nigerians go to Togo and Accra, Ghana to board flights to international destinations. The disparity in fares is so large that if a traveller takes flight to Accra from Lagos and then board a flight to London he would still make gain than if he travelled directly from Lagos to London.

Industry stakeholders said this had always been the reason why they do everything to stop Nigerian airlines from flying to their destinations.

Nigerian carriers will fly Nigerians at lower fare, which would force them to also reduce their fares.

THISDAY learnt that when Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) stopped Arik Air flight to London after taking over the airline in 2017, Lagos to London fares increased by 40 per cent. Medview Airline crashed fare from Lagos to London. Air Peace crashed fares from Lagos to Johannesburg and even to Sharjah in the UAE. So, in order to maintain the high airfares in the Nigerian route, these airlines connive with their countries to fight Nigerian carriers through diplomatic channels.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Effectiveness of Taxation as Fiscal Policy Tool in Nigeria Zira Maigadi

S

imply put, taxation refers to a compulsory charge, fees or levies imposed by Government on its citizens, and or corporations’ income and properties.

Traditionally, taxation is seen as source of revenue to the Government but is far more than that as it is one of the most effective fiscal policy tools used to stimulating growth and stabilization of the economy.

This paper is aimed at analyzing the effectiveness or otherwise of taxation as economic fiscal policy tool.

Taxation can be classified based on tax base, incidence and rate. Therefore, we can have such as Income Tax, Capital Gains Tax, Consumption Tax, Direct and Indirect Taxes, Progressive, Proportional and Regressive taxes.

As earlier mentioned, the role of taxation is broad and not limited to source of revenue as wrongly perceived. Some of its roles include: r 5P SBJTF SFWFOVF GPS HPWFSONFOU r 5P SFHVMBUF UIF QSPEVDUJPO PG DFSUBJO HPPET and services r 5P SFHVMBUF UIF DPOTVNQUJPO PG DFSUBJO HPPET and services r 5P DPOUSPM NPOPQPMZ r 5P DVSC JOáBUJPO r 5P SFEVDF JODPNF JOFRVBMJUZ r 5P DPSSFDU CBMBODF PG QBZNFOU JTTVFT r 5P QSPUFDU EPNFTUJD JOEVTUSJFT r 5P DPOUSPM BOE JOáVFODF FDPOPNJD BOE TPDJBM behaviour All the above have great impact on the economy as a whole and the ability to balance their competing demand will have a positive impact on economic stabilization.

To have proper understanding of tax imposition and collections, we need to know the basic principles of taxation which includes but not limited to the followings: r Equality – Fairness in the distribution of tax

burden among taxpayers r Certainty- Tax payable ought to be certain and not arbitrary. The time, amount to be paid, basis of assessment ought to be clear to the tax payer or any independent person. r Convenience of the mode and timing of payments r Simplicity-Tax system should be simple, straightforward to understand. This reduces non compliances r Flexibility- Should be flexible enough to adapt to changing economic environment.

For this paper, our attention will be on the effect of taxation as a fiscal policy tool on the economy. It is a well-known fact that tax is the financing side of fiscal policy.

When taxes are increased, the disposable income of individuals are reduced which leads to reduced aggregate demand and thus slows production due to low level of demand. As for corporate organisations, the higher the tax level, the lower the funds available for investment and expansion of production. In this case where the economy is hyper growing ( boom) and the need to control such growth for sustainability, tax increases as a fiscal policy could be used.

On the other hand, where the economy is in depression, expansionary fiscal policy is to be adopted through reduction in taxes leading to increased disposable income and aggregate demand. Unfortunately, our tax system is arbitrary and on stand alone sole aim of raising revenue and getting as much as possible collection cost running into billions.

Burden of tax otherwise known as shifting of tax burden is so common in Nigeria such that aims of such taxes are eroded by the ripple negative effects on the citizens. A good example is the Vat tax, sales tax or even consumption tax. Once imposed or increased, producers and businessmen often

pass on the entire tax to the final consumers.

Where there is no substitute, consumers are forced to buy at a higher price resulting in a reduced purchasing capacity and welfare.

It also widens the inequality in the society.

Multiple taxations- By far this is the most devastating effect on the economy. The regime of multiple taxation in Nigeria is better imagined than known. Some state Government do not even recognize tax clearance from another state and once you have any official transactions, you are required to pay a flat rate tax irrespective of the tax clearance you got from your state! Equally too, Local Governments use thugs to harass and maim citizens even on federal highways in the name of raising revenue. This is prevalent even in the FCT. It is has even become a crime to use Hilux within Abuja as you must pay at least 35k to the Area Council.

Sadly, most of these funds raised are never accounted for. In some Local Government, the internally generated revenue is used by the Chairman as upkeep allowance Rigid tax laws application: This is in respect to the Federal inland revenue services and the various State Revenue Boards. Nigeria has witnessed spiral inflation over the years.

Example in the downstream sector of the petroleum industry, where price of PMS shot up from =N=N97 to =N=650 per liter while the margins are either reducing or at best constant.

However, the tax authorities will wickedly apply tax on turn over. Simple example will suffix. A trailer load of PMS 50,000 liters.

The turnover at 97 is =N=4,850,000; with a taxable income of approximately =N=50,000.

Tax at a rate of say 30% would be =N=15,000 (30% of 50,000) while on turnover at 0.5% is =N=24,250.00. the tax authorities will go for the higher which is calculated on turnover. However, with increase in PMS price to=N=650, the new turnover in 2022-23 would

be about =N=32,500,000 and minimum tax at .5% is=N=162,500! An increase of over=N=138,250 and the business could not make such profit.

Tax authorities knowing this lope holes negotiate with taxpayers to the detriment of the economy and the business entity.

In accounting there is a principle of inflation accounting that entails reflecting the current numbers in hyperinflationary business environment which would have taken care of the tax. This is not done by the taxation authorities in Nigeria. While revenue to Government is increasing, businesses are grounded and if not well managed will lead to recession!

Collection of tax as a target driven process.

All the Nigerian MDA involved in collecting revenue one way or the other have turned into commercial banks of yesteryears where deposit mobilization targets were given as a pre-condition for promotion. This contributed in no small in the collapse of the banks witnessed in 90s. in the same principle, the rate at which MDAs and tax authorities drive tax and revenue collection have made useless the very canon and foundation of good tax system. Government should be increasing the tax base and not over taxing existing taxpayers to increase revenue!

In the main therefore tax system in Nigeria at all levels are geared towards raising revenue for government and individuals relegating to background the Fiscal policy and stabilization role. This explains why monetary policies are not effective as the fiscal policies are counterproductive.

To mitigate against these serious situations the followings areas are recommended for consideration. t ;JSB .BJHBEJ B GPSNFS .% $&0 PG "GSJDBO 1FUSPMFVN 1MD XSPUF GSPN "CVKB NBJHBEJ!ZBIPP DPN The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

26

IMAGES

T H I S D AY ˾ DAY NOVEM ͯ͵˜ 2023

Photo Editor Abiodun Ajala Email abiodun.ajala@thisdaylive.com

L-R: Director, Federal Department of Agriculture and Food Security, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Abdullahi Garba; Chairman, Board of Directors, Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc (FMN), Mr. John G. Coumantaros; Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari; Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi; and Chief Executive Officer, FMN, Mr. Boye Olusanya, during the inspection visit of the ministers to the Apapa Bulk Terminal Limited, a subsidiary of FMN, in Apapa, Lagos…recently

L-R: Sales Manager, BTECH Germany, Dikisoglu Ozgur; Chairman, BTECH Germany, Emeka Roy Ezeala; Managing Director, BTECH Germany, Sonja Boeckenhueser; and Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Cubana FMCG, Efosa Ogbeide, at the launch of BTECH Germany home appliances and consumer electronics brands in Lagos...recently

Director-General, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier-General Yushau Dogara Ahmed, and Kaduna State NYSC Coordinator, Mr. Hassan Taura, during the DG’s visit to Kaduna State temporary Orientation Camp in Kurmi Mashi, to address corps members and camp officials…recently

L-R: General Manager, Evolve Charity, Godwin Ejeh; one of the beneficiaries and a student of Akokwa High School, Akokwa, Imo State, Agodi Chinaecherem Blessing; and Business Development Manager, Polaris Bank, Urualla Branch, Nwokoro Ifeyinwa, at the presentation of school bags, sandals, books, pens and uniforms to the students of Akokwa High School, Akokwa, during the ongoing CSR Partner in the Girl-Child Education Project, held in Imo State…recently

L-R: Relations Manager, Presco Plc, Mr. Tony Uwajeh; guest speaker and former Director-General, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Dr. Muda Yusuf; Chairperson, Women in Logistics and Transport (WiLAT), Mrs. Khadijat Ifelola Sheidu-Shabi; Chairman of the occasion, Mr. Hassan Bello; Founder, Highway African and Head, National FRSC Celebrity Special Marshal, Julie Chi-Nwowla; Group Chief Investment Officer, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr. Tony Idugboe; Publisher, City Business News, Moses Ebosele; and President, Guide of Corporate Online Publisher, Maureen Chigbo, during the City Business News Summit 2023, held in Lagos… recently PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT

L-R: Chief Digital Officer, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Mr. Bipul Deka; Chief Information Officer of the bank, Mr. Rotimi Famuwagun; Divisional Head, Personal Banking, Mr. Shamsideen Fashola; winners of the FCMB Hackathon Challenge, Afolabi Ayanfe and Sophia Ezeh of Team Hi-Tech Innovation; Divisional Head, Transaction Banking of FCMB, Mrs. Rolayo Akhigbe; Group Head, Corporate Affairs of the bank, Mr. Diran Olojo; and Chief Executive Officer, Ingressive For Good (I4G), Mr. Sean Burrowes, during the prize presentation ceremony in Lagos…recently

This

Weekend

Group Features Editor: CHIEMELIE EZEOBI chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com

07010510430

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2023

TR

UTH

& R E ASO

N

WEEKLY MAGAZINE

DAMILOLA MIKE-BAMILOYE:

Mount Zion Has Propagated the Gospel Globally through Film-making

28

˜ ͯ͵˜ ͰͮͰͱ ˾ T H I S D AY

COVER

DAMILOLA MIKE-BAMILOYE:

Mount Zion Has Propagated the Gospel Globally through Film-making Damilola Mike-Bamiloye is a Drama Minister, a Christian Movie Writer, Producer, Director and Director of Photography of Mount Zion Film Production, arm of Mount Zion Faith Ministries Int’l Nigeria. In this interview with Sunday Okobi, he highlights how the production house has propagated the gospel of Jesus Christ globally through film-making, as well as sundry issues in the production of films in Nigeria Many people across the world have watched a lot of films produced by Mount Zion Film Production without knowing much about the production company. Can you tell the world all about the film production house, and what inspired you to become a filmmaker? ount Zion Film Production is a ministry established to produce gospel or evangelical movies. It was founded in 1985, and has produced over 200 movies from its stable. The founder of the ministry is my father, Evangelist Mike Bamiloye.

In a significant way, he inspired me to become a filmmaker. I vividly remember accompanying him for his stage productions, and while following him to film shooting, I am always amazed at how people, who I am very familiar with, transform and become completely different people on stage and in movies

M

What’s the projection for the future for Mount Zion Film Production?

The future is definitely greater. The Bible says, “Your beginning may be small, but your latter end shall greatly increase.” Mount Zion started small with basically stage productions, and now we are making quality movies. However, we have not reached our final destination because it shall still be greater.

As a filmmaker in Nigeria, what are the biggest challenges you have faced and still are facing?

The art of filmmaking itself is challenging, whether in Nigeria or in foreign countries. The reason is that it combines various forms of art into one cohesive picture, including music, drama, set design, costume, lighting, and more. Excellence is expected in each department to create a compelling final product.

However, in Nigeria, the major challenge is funding.

The lack of sufficient funds has been a constraint for us and has limited our creativity to what we can afford. However, over time, Nigerian filmmakers have mastered the art of maneuvering through these challenges.

How did you arrive at your

preferred genre of film (Christian) or style of film-making?

For me, filmmaking is both a calling and a ministry. It goes beyond mere passion; God has summoned me to utilise my gift in spreading the gospel. This is the driving force behind my work. To date, I have written and produced over 40 movies. I penned my first movie, ‘Youthful Lust’ in 2005 at the age of 15 while I was still in the secondary school. Additionally, I wrote and produced the inaugural film by Bowen University titled: ‘Fiwajomi’ in 2010, which was followed by ‘Abobaku’ in 2012. During my National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), I collaborated with the Mount Zion Faith Ministry to create a film for the Nigerian Christian Corpers Fellowship (NCCF) in Imo State called ‘Shadows of Death’ in 2013.

Subsequently, I continued to write and produce other movies, such as: ‘A Journey in Circle (2014); ‘Bosom Fire’ (2015); ‘Ignition’ (2016); and ‘The Manager’ (2016). I was also the Director of Photography (DoP) for movies such as ‘House on Fire’ (parts 1-7); ‘High Calling’; ‘Abejoye’ (Seasons 1-7). Furthermore, I wrote, produced, and directed the following works: ‘The Train’, a biopic of Evangelist Mike Bamiloye; ‘Legion’; ‘The Abattoir’ series; ‘30 Pieces’ among others.

Additionally, I wrote and co-directed the biopic movie centred on Pastor EA Adeboye, titled: ‘Enoch’.

How has the film industry in Nigeria changed since you started, and how has it affected your work?

First of all, the quality has changed significantly.

Nigerian filmmakers are now producing more

cinematic movies that have captured the attention of the international market. Thanks to new kinds of cameras and gears; it is easier to shoot high-quality pictures. In the past, complex cameras required ample light to achieve clarity in the picture. However, with advancements in technology, this process has been simplified. As a result we get to make movies faster and better.

Just like other conventional filmmakers, how do you approach the process of storytelling in your films?

The most important aspect for me is obtaining the right script. As a gospel filmmaker, it is crucial to seek God’s guidance to discern the message He wants to share with the world. Once the script is acquired, the second challenge is finding the right cast to effectively portray the roles. Additionally, assembling the right crew is essential in bringing the story to life. For me, it is imperative that even as I create a gospel film, it is packaged with excellence.

You have been presented with the opportunity to guide many aspiring filmmakers, so what’s your advice to them?

My advice to young filmmakers is to focus not only on making movies but also on creating films that have a positive impact on society. This is because the world is profoundly influenced by powerful visuals and compelling storytelling.

The Bible teaches us that the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom. Therefore, when we produce movies that instill the fear of God in the hearts of people, it can greatly contribute to curbing the negative influences affecting today’s youths.

You produce mostly religious (Christian) films, so what is your model of selecting actors and actresses for your films?

The majority of our actors are trained at the Mount Zion Institute of Christian Drama and the Mount Zion Film Academy, so they come into the film acting from that background. However, we also collaborate with individuals who share our vision. In Nigeria, there are numerous full-time gospel actors and drama ministers who are part of an organisation, All Nigerian Conference of Evangelical Christian Drama) (ANCEDRAM).

They participate in the vision of the film house in propagating the Word of God across the world through acting. Most importantly, we are not mere actors, and the individuals we bring onto the set are not simply there to perform, but rather to minister the gospel of Jesus through the medium of drama and film.

How has technology impacted on the film-making process in Nigeria, and what are your future goals as a filmmaker?

Yes, technology has made filmmaking easier and less stressful. In the past, there was never a concept of mobile phone filmmaking, but now you can literally make a short film with your phone. So, it is really becoming easier. My future goal as a gospel filmmaker is to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ to new territories through the tool of film-making.

What is your most recent film project, and how do you handle criticism and feedback on your works?

My recent project is ‘Abattoir’, a series with four seasons. We have been filming it since 2018 and are still currently filming. We are presently filming Season 5. You cannot have a hundred percent perfect movie. The best filmmakers will tell you that their films are not their best. So whenever I make a film, I ask myself questions: What do I need to work on?

How can I improve in the next project? Because if you stop learning, you stop growing. Personally, I strongly believe in constructive criticism because as filmmakers, we continue to grow and develop with every movie. That’s why it’s important to have an open heart.

29

˜ ͯ͵˜ ͰͮͰͱ ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWS

Nigerian Navy Partner TFN, NAqF, LASG on Int’l Triathlon Chiemelie Ezeobi To boost the sport, the Nigerian Navy(NN)has partneredTriathlon Federation of Nigeria (TFN), NigerianAquaticFederation(NAqF) andtheLagosStategovernmentto organisetheinauguralInternational Triathlon.

The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC),NavalTrainingCommand, RearAdmiralPatrickNwatu,who recently met with the president of Triathlon Federation of Nigeria, Prince Wale Oladunjoye at Naval DockyardLimited,VictoriaIsland, Lagos, described the partnership as a good move.

He said the meeting was geared towards the actualisation of a proposal by the Nigerian Navy to organiseaninauguralinternational Triathlon in Nigeria in partnership with Nigeria Triathlon Federation and Lagos State government.

A consultant and Lagos based entrepreneurandtriathlonenthusiast, (NN) Captain Shehu Noibi rtd also joined the meeting virtually.

FOC Naval Training Command, Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu with President of Triathlon Federation of Nigeria, Prince Wale Oladunjoye at Naval Dockyard Limited, Victoria Island, Lagos Rear Admiral Nwatu, the chairman of the Nigerian Navy swimming, stated that triathlon is one of the best athletic contests to showcase optimum fitness and endurance which he described as some of the qualities possessed by Nigerians, especiallythoseresiding in the various coastal communities

andmaritimeorganisations,includingpersonneloftheNigerianNavy.

Hemaintainedthatthetriathlon which is intended to hold in the first quarter of 2024, would commence with offshore open water swimming, 10km race within Eko-Atlantic city and about 1520km bicycle race within Victoria

Islandwhilethecompetitorswould return to Eko-Atlantic city for the 1km finishing race.

According to him, in the past 20 years, the Annual Chief of Naval staff National swimming competition offered a veritable platform for the Nigerian Navy to showcase swimming and other aquaticsportsinNigeria,whilethe last one held in Asaba, Delta state created a platform for improved Nigerian Navy - civil relations and reducedseablindnessinthecountry.

After the meeting, all parties pledged to work assiduously towards the actualising the dream of organizing a befitting triathlon race that would entail open water swimming, endurance run and cycling in the coming months to put Lagos State in the international sports calendar for the sport. Both parties are very optimistic that the triathlon sports would attract adequate sponsorship to show case the very best of Nigeria and Lagos State in particular to the whole world.

Titus Sardines Promo Rewards Loyal Customers

Stories by Mary Nnah

Nigerians who have been patronising Titus Sardines were rewarded at the first draw of the Titus Sardines promotion held in Lagos recently with winners emerging from different parts of the country.

General Manager, Ekulo Group of Companies, Joseph Okonkwo, said that as a household name for many years, the company decided to reward Nigerians who have been patronising Titus sardines.

Okonkwo said Titus Sardine is a healthy product enriched with Omega 3 vitamins, with the purest of oil, adding that because of the patronage the product is enjoying in the country, the company felt it’s wise to give back to the people. “We all know how tough the economy is today, things are not easy for the ordinary Nigerian.

We felt that in times like this, it’s

Director, Business Development and Management Strategy, Ekulo Group of Companies, Golda Okonkwo; BBN All-Star Housemate, Uriel Oputa; Corporate Communications Manager, Ekulo Group of Companies, Gift Nwachukwu and General Manager, Ekulo Group of Companies, Joseph Okonkwo at the event proper to add value by putting smiles on the faces of our consumers. This is the first of its kind and promise to make it a monthly affair. Winners will also emerge in November and will go home

with mouth-watering prices. As you have witnessed today, the promotion is real, and we have the regulatory body with us to ensure that the draw is smooth, transparent and fair.

“The exciting part is that we are going to have a winner who will be going on an all-expense paid trip to Morocco. So, keep eating Titus sardines, for you might “You all know the role Tutus Sardines playedinthe just concluded Big Brother Nigeria. In the Titus task, Kim Oprah emerged winner and she is here today for the cheque presentation of N250,000. With Titus sardines, we know how to keep it real”, Okonkwo noted further.

The seven-part draw categories have 20 winners of N5,000 cash, 10 winners for a carton of Titus sardines each, five winners for the N30,000 fuel voucher category and one person for a door fridge.

Others are one winner for a generator set, one winner for the air conditioner and the grand winner of N1 million to a lucky winner.

Playhouse Clocks 12, Launches ‘The StoryStoryHub’ As part of its 12th-anniversary celebrations, leading digital communications agency, Playhouse Communication Limited, has launched a digital creative economy initiative named “The StoryStoryHub”.

The initiative, which celebrates the growing contributions of the digital creative industry to the nation’s economy, is part of its corporate citizenship and in appreciation of the nation, clients, and industry that have enabled

Playhouse’s success stories these past twelve years.

In communicating the digital creative industry’s radical impact on society, “StoryStoryHub” features the stories of the businesses and individuals who are consistently building the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP) both at the micro and macro levels.

“Our work in the past 12 years with multinationals, emerging corporates, as well as small and

BChain Academy to Expose Young People to Financial Freedom

About 20 Nigerian youths across Lagos State will receive relevant tech and blockchain skills training to empower them economically.

TheConvenerandCEOofBlockchainAcademy, Mr FemiAdegolu called on Nigerian youths to leverage on the opportunity created by their platform and attain financial freedom rather than relocating abroad where they pay huge taxes, they can still be in Nigeria and earn in foreign currency.

Adegolu said that the tech academy is hoping to achieve this feat throughpartnershipswithdifferent and relevant stakeholders who out of their mentorship drives are willing to collaborate and commit theirresourcestodevelopNigerian youths,ontechnologyskillsacquisition, including Blockchain and Web 3 technologies as part of it’s Corporate Social Responsibility.

Hemadethischargeatthegraduation ceremony of Cohort 3, where about300studentsgraduatedfrom the Bchainacademywiththetheme:

“Blockchainforfinancialfreedom”.

The cohort 3 graduates have been equipped with the knowledge of how to implement this emerging technology to earn a living.

BchainAcademyisapioneering platform inAfrica, with a focus on harnessing talents and promoting the adoption of blockchain technology through Web 3.0 education. However, Bchain Academy has created positive socio-economic impacts among the youth on the continent. The platform’s targeted audience includes young high school graduates, undergraduates, university graduates, corporate workers, business owners, and the less privileged who lack access to laptops and the internet.

The Special Assistant on Youth and Talent Development to Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, Mr Chiazor Daniel said Governments will play an important role in shaping how Blockchain will evolve.

medium scale enterprises (SMEs) validate our corporate conviction that digital marketing communications will aid our national renaissance.

In other words, service industries such as the creative economy and digital specifically, are lowhanging ‘game changers’ for sustainable economic growth and youth employment”, Playhouse’s MD/CEO, Mr. Tolu Onile-Ere, said. Speaking further, he said, “The StoryStoryHub”, draws

from our ‘Tales by Moonlight’ experiences, where grandma shared age-old wisdom through folktales. It undergirds a central motivation for this initiative – ‘our solutions are within us’.

“The Digital creative economy is a key part of Nigeria’s economy and the country’s future, and we are keen to showcase the stories of the businesses and individuals using digital to reach new audiences and grow their businesses.

Prince Segun Akanni Unveils Activities for Second Edition of Pan-Afrika Drum in Canada

Still basking in the euphoria of the successful hosting of the maiden edition of the Drum Festival on July 28, 2023, the organiser of the event, The Drum Online Media Incorporation is preparing to host the second edition. Tagged, “Exploring the Dynamism of African Drums and Canadian Multiculturalism for Global Unity, Inclusivity and Development”, on Thursday, June 27, 2024, at Fuzion Banquet Hall, Britannia Road, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada.

The grand finale of the PanAfrika Drum Festival will take place on Friday, July 28, 2024, at Wesley Hall, 69 Milvan Dr, North York, ON M9L 1Y8.

In a press release made available to THISDAY, the Convener of the festival, Prince Segun Akanni said the festival will be held in collaboration with the Global Forum for Human Rights and Sustainable

Development (GFHRSD), a United Nations recognised non-governmental organisation and other organisations to host the festival.

Akanni noted that some of the activities for the second edition include a courtesy visit and interactive sessions with the Premier Of Ontario, Hon. Doug Ford, Mayor of Brampton, Mayor Patrick Brown and Mayor of Toronto, Mayor Olivia Chow, Mayor Of Kitchener, Mayor Berry Vrbanovic, Cultural and Tourism sectors, such as Canadian Council For The Arts, as well as some Canadian media organisations.

In his words; “ There will be entertainment and other fascinating activities such as lecture presentation, art exhibition, drum competitions, beauty pageant/ fashion show, award presentation, cultural performances, and other colourful mind-bowing side attractions.

PEAK LAUNCHES NEW PEAK “MINI” EVAP PACKS Peak Milk from the stable of FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria PLC has introduced the all-new, budget-friendly Evap Packs – Peak “Mini”. These pocket-friendly, convenient packs are designed to make the goodness of Peak Evaporated milk accessible to all Nigerians, irrespective of their social class.

Officially launched in October 2023, the Peak “Mini” packs arrived with a bang. To celebrate the launch, the company organised product sampling activations across the nation, with enthusiastic staff members personally serving the people.

The message was clear: “Breakfast for You” – highlighting the accessibility and affordability of Peak “Mini” Packs.

With the more affordable packs, anyone can now enjoy a nutritious breakfast, thanks to Peak’s innovative and costeffective solution. This campaign underlines Peak’s commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind when it comes to experiencing the nourishing benefits of Evaporated milk.

The “Breakfast for You” campaign promises to be a thrilling and rewarding experience for consumers. From engaging with influencers who will share their stories of how Peak “Mini” Packs have made a difference in their daily routines, to hosting user-generated content that encourages creativity and engagement, Peak is going all out to make this campaign an unforgettable experience.

Senior Brand Manager, Peak Milk, Moninnuola Kassim, expressed her enthusiasm for the launch, stating, “We believe that quality nutrition should be accessible to everyone. The introduction of the new Peak “Mini” Packs is a testament to our unwavering commitment to our consumers. This product is not just affordable; it is a symbol of inclusivity. We want everyone to enjoy a nourishing breakfast, regardless of their pocket size.”

The new Peak “Mini” Packs are now available at the nearest retail stores, making it easier than ever to start your day with a nourishing boost. Peak Milk is Nigeria’s premier dairy brand, dedicated to providing high-quality and nutritious dairy products to millions of households across the country.

As a brand relied upon by generations, Peak Milk continues to uphold its promise of nourishing families and promoting healthy lifestyles. Through its diverse initiatives and campaigns, Peak Milk strives to create a positive impact on the well-being of Nigerian communities.

Since 1954, when the first consignment of Peak Milk arrived in Nigeria, the brand has remained committed to nourishing Nigerians with consistently high-quality dairy products, helping them reach their full potential.

Peak has continually evolved and expanded its product line to meet the changing needs of its consumers.

FORDAX RECEIVES ISO 21001 CERTIFICATION FOR PIONEERING DIGITAL BUSINESS EDUCATION IN NIGERIA, THE GLOBE In a groundbreaking achievement for the Nigerian education sector, Fordax Business School proudly announces its attainment of the ISO 21001 certification.

This prestigious certification is a testament to Fordax’s commitment to delivering top-notch, flexible and affordable business education in the digitalrealm,solidifyingitspositionasNigeria’sfirst-everISO21001certified digital business school.

TheISO21001standard,specificallydesignedforeducationalorganizations, focusesonenhancingthequalityandeffectivenessoflearningandteaching.

Fordax’s successful certification is a result of its unwavering dedication to meeting rigorous international standards, ensuring the provision of high-quality education tailored to the needs of today’s dynamic business landscape.FordaxBusinessSchool(withpresenceinNigeriaandtheUnited Kingdom) isat theforefront of digital/onlinebusinesseducation, offering a range of online and blended learning programs that cater to the needs of busy professionals and lifelong learners.

Theschool’sinnovativeapproachtobusinesseducationhasbeenlauded byindustryexperts,whorecognizeitspotentialtotransformentrepreneurs and working professionals in Nigeria and all over the world.

As Fordax prepares to offer Executive DBA, Executive MBAand other professionalcertificateprogramsthatpreparestudentstocompeteglobally andbuildsuccessfulcompanies,theISO21001certificationrecognizesthe institution’scommitmenttoexcellenceincurriculumdevelopment,teaching methodologies, and student support services.

Dr.StephenMichael, Director of the Fordax Business School, expressed immense pride in this achievement, stating, “Receiving the ISO 21001 certification and also getting accredited by the Accreditation Board for International Standards (ABIS) is a testament to our relentless pursuit of educational excellence. “ It reinforces our commitment to providing students with a transformative, flexible, mobile and modern learning experience that prepares them for success in the fast-paced world of business.”

TheISO21001certificationprocessinvolvedacomprehensiveevaluation of Fordax’s educational management system, ensuring alignment with internationalbestpractices.Thecertificationisnotonlyarecognitionofpast accomplishments but also a commitment to continuous improvement, with Fordax pledging to uphold and surpass these standards in the years to come. One of the key aspects of Fordax’s ISO 21001 certified system is its emphasis on flexibility. The school understands the diverse needs of its students and aims to deliver education that adapts to individual learning styles and schedules. This flexibility is crucial in a world where the demands on professionals are ever-changing, requiring a dynamic and adaptable approach to education.

The achievement of ISO 21001 certification positions Fordax Business School as a trailblazer in the field of digital business education in Nigeria and the world at large. Prospective students can now choose an institution that not only meets but exceeds international standards,ensuringaworld-classeducationthatequipsthemwiththeskills andknowledgeneededtothriveintoday’scompetitivebusinessenvironment.

AsFordaxBusinessSchoolcelebratesthismilestone,itisnotjustatriumph fortheinstitutionbutalsoasignificantadvancementfortheNigerianeducation sector as a whole. The ISO 21001 certification marks the beginning of a new era, where digital education is synonymous with quality, flexibility, and global standards.

30

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2023 T H I S D AY

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

Edo Fertilizer Company Produces over 80,000 Tonnes of NPK Fertilizer, Records N15bn in Sales The Edo State Fertilizer and Chemical Company, Auchi, has produced a total of 80,000 tonnes of NPK fertiliser and generated a total of N15bn in sales turnover.

The company was revived by the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration in 2017 with a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement with WACOT Limited, an agroinput company.

A representative of Edo Fertilizer and Chemical Company, Sadiq Kazzim, at the Alaghodaro

Summit in Benin City, the State capital, commended Governor Godwin Obaseki for creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive in the State.

According to him: “Today, we produce 80,000 tonnes of NPK Fertilisers in Edo State and our sales turnover is over N15 billion. The company has the opportunity to serve other parts of the country, especially the North East due to insurgency as it is difficult to allow setting up fertilizers in that part of the country.”

The fertilizer business drives a number of agriculture activities within the State and across the country, as it provides a steady supply of inputs to boost yields and improve food sufficiency.

The company also provides jobs to locals in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of the State, reducing youth restiveness and supplying farmers with much needed supplies to boost food production in the area.

Baobab Nigeria Opens Inaugural Branch in Uyo In a bid to help more business across Nigeria, Baobab Nigeria marked its entry into Uyo, Akwa Ibom state, with the inauguration of its first branch at 190, Ikot Ekpene Road.

The ceremony was graced by top executives from Baobab headquarters, esteemed clients, security personnel, and influential market leaders.

His Royal Majesty, Chief Sir Sylvanus Effiong Okon, the paramount ruler of Uyo was also present at the event.

One of the notable moments during the event was the testimonial shared by Mr. Christian Ogochukwu, a satisfied SME client of Baobab. With genuine

appreciation, he recounted how Baobab’s swift loan approval process had significantly benefited his business. His positive experience served as a testament to Baobab’s mission to empower small and medium enterprises, providing them with the financial support needed to thrive.

Okon, the paramount ruler of Uyo, extended his thanks to Baobab for choosing Uyo as the location for its new branch.

Acknowledging the positive impact the bank has already had on the local community, he lauded Baobab’s commitment to empowering business owners.

He went on to encourage

Baobab to consider further expansion within Uyo, emphasizing the potential for growth in other areas of the city.

He highlighted the importance of financial institutions like Baobab in contributing to the prosperity of local businesses.

He specifically thanked Baobab for its role in empowering business owners, recognizing the ripple effect it has on the overall economic well-being of the community.

As Baobab Nigeria continues to extend its reach, this expansion into Akwa Ibom represents a strategic move towards creating a positive impact on local businesses and communities.

Wema Bank Bags Most Outstanding SME Friendly Award Nigeria’s leading innovative bank and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, has been awarded SME Friendly Bank of the Year and Most Outstanding Digital Bank Brand in Consumer Engagement, at the BrandCom Awards on Saturday, November 4th, 2023. These well-deserved awards were accorded to the bank in recognition of its remarkable impact in the digital banking space and its active empowerment and support for the Nigerian Small and Medium Enterprise [SME] industry.

The BrandCom Award is an annual award anchored

by Africa’s No. 1 Brand, Marketing, and Communications Publication, the Brand Communicator. This award celebrates the exploits and achievements of brands,

agencies, organisations, and notable players that have gone the extra mile in making a colossal impact on the industry.

Wema Bank’s Head of Brand and Marketing Communications, Mabel Adeteye, attributed the bank’s success and its merit of the prestigious awards to the trust and support of its esteemed customers. “As I take this moment to express our gratitude, it would be remiss of me to fail to recognise those who have made it possible.

To every customer that has trusted us, put their faith in us and their money in our care, these accolades are for you.

It is your faith that keeps us running and your trust that motivates us to do better and for that, we are grateful. Thank you for believing in us, thank you for connecting the brand and thank you for trusting the

vision.”, she said.

Adeteye relayed the bank’s promise to sustain its unrelenting support and empowerment of individuals and businesses across Nigeria, assuring its commitment to deepening its connection with every customer and becoming a support system for all. “Wema Bank has taken over and with every partnership and solution, we will continue to reform the financial and digital banking services landscape, and empower every customer digitally, financially, and in every way necessary. As cliché as it may sound, this is really just the beginning for Wema Bank. I implore you to stick with us on this journey. I extend our utmost gratitude to the Brand Communicator, for this heart-warming act of acknowledgement of the great work that we do at Wema Bank.” she added.

From left: Customer Service Supervisor, Baobab Microfinance Bank, Benin Branch, Ademola Oyedele; Regional Manager, Gabriel Omole; Branch Manager Benin, Omotola Ogunle; Deputy Chief Client Officer, Godwin Gabriel and Head of Marketing & Brand Communication, Samuel Oguzie during the inauguration of the bank’s Benin branch…recently

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MILLION NAIRA) August, 2023

Money Supply (M3)

65,445,154.2

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

552,553.58

Money Supply (M2)

64,892,600.61

-- Quasi Money

40,870,301.28

-- Narrow Money (M1)

24,022,299.33

---- Currency Outside Banks

2,295,309.10

---- Demand Deposits

21,726,990.23

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

7,144,158.92

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

58,300,995.27

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

87,273,966.81

---- Credit to Government (Net)

32,511,333.17

---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA

0.00

---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA)

0.00

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

54,762,633.63

--Other Assets Net

13,347,376.27

Reserve Money (Base Money

19,429,603.25

--Currency in Circulation

2,660,138.92

--Banks Reserves --Special Intervention Reserves

16,769,464.34 428,519.21

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

August 2023

Inter-Bank Call Rate

3.89

Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) Monetary Policy Rate (MPR)

18.75

Treasury Bill Rate

5.13

Savings Deposit Rate

5.26

1 Month Deposit Rate

7.31

Big Bull Gold Introduces N200 Pack

3 Months Deposit Rate

7.55

6 Months Deposit Rate

8.30

“With the introduction of Big Bull Gold in N200 pack, we are taking it a step further by offering premium quality parboiled rice in packaging that is both visually appealing and consumer friendly. It is our way of enhancing the overall rice consumption experience for our valued consumers,” he said.

Chief Marketing Officer, TGI Group, Probal Bhattacharya, stated that the introduction of Big Bull Gold in pocket-friendly packaging reflects how the company always strives to stay ahead of the curve and anticipate the changing needs of its valued consumers.

12 Months Deposit Rate

8.13

Prime Lending rate

13.99

Maximum Lending Rate

27.59

At a time when the rising cost of living is causing financial stress on family budgets and forcing many Nigerians to make tough choices even when it comes to the most basic of necessity, Big Bull Rice, a premium milled parboiled rice recently introduced its Big Bull Gold Rice in a N200 pocket-friendly pack.

In an economy where every naira counts, the Big Bull Gold Rice N200 Pack makes quality rice accessible to a wide range of consumers. It eases the financial burden on households while ensuring that consumers can still enjoy staple

food. This pocket-friendly and high-quality consumer rice pack offers several key benefits that make it a source of hope for many Nigerians.

Big Bull Rice renowned for its premium-quality, highly nourishing, non-sticky, mediumgrain rice with a high swelling index is not only committed to satisfying the culinary preferences but also catering to the economic constraints that many Nigerians face.

Speaking, Executive Director, TGI Group, Deepanjan Roy stated that the company has always prioritized quality and customer satisfaction.

˾ ÙßÜÍÏ ̋

˾ ÙØÏÞËÜã ÙÖÓÍã ËÞÏ ̋ ͯͱϱ

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT 29TH SEPTEMBER , 2023

The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $97.48 a barrel on Thursday, compared with $97.08 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations.

The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

T H I S D AY ˾ DAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2023

31

MARKET NEWS

Ecobank, AGF Sign Transformative $200m Risk Sharing Agreement

KayodeTokede

Ecobank and the African Guarantee Fund (AGF), yesterday joined forces in a groundbreaking $200 million risk-sharing agreement, aimed at catalyzing economic growth and supporting entrepreneurial ventures – including womenowned (SMEs) on the continent.

The two organisations signed a strategic partnership agreement yesterday on the sidelines

of the Africa Financial Industry Summit (AFIS) in Togo, in the presence of their respective leaders.

The $200 million risk-sharing agreement marks the third renewal of Ecobank’s partnership with AGF. The initial guarantee, provided by AGF in 2013, covered seven countries with a total guaranteed portfolio of $50 million.

Commenting on the partnership, Ecobank Group CEO, Mr.

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R DEALS

Jeremy Awori in a statement expressed enthusiasm about the potential impact on SMEs and the overall economic landscape, stating, “Our enhanced partnership with the African Guarantee Fund marks a significant step forward in our commitment to supporting SMEs across Africa with affordable financing. Through this partnership, we are taking bold steps to enhance green financing and gender financ-

S E C U R I T I E S MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

ing. In doing so, we aim to eliminate the rigorous and restrictive requirements for collateral, particularly hindering women-focused businesses’ access to credit.”

Also, the CEO, African Guarantee Fund Group, Jules Ngankam acknowledged the longstanding partnership between AGF and Ecobank Group and its transformative impact on the SME landscape: “The renewal of our partnership

T R A D E D

VALUE TRADED ( N )

A S O F

MAIN BOARD

with Ecobank Group to now span 27 countries is proof of the importance of risk-sharing mechanisms that banks should leverage to grow their SME portfolio. This partnership will catalyse close to $1 billion of financing for SMEs, who are the real drivers of growth in African economies.”

“Ecobank’s “Ellevate” program will also largely benefit from our “AFAWA Guarantee for Growth” facility

to significantly boost financing of women led or owned SMEs,” he added.

In 2018, the scope of the guarantee expanded to encompass 14 countries, resulting in cumulative disbursements of $230 million since that time.

The renewed partnership now extends to 27 countries within Ecobank’s African network, offering 50 coverage for qualifying SMEs across all target markets.

N OV E M B E R / 1 6

/ 2 3

DEALS

QUANTITY TRADED

MARKET PRICE

VALUE TRADED ( N)

32

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2023

NEWS

NCC EVC’S INTERACTIVE SESSION WITH EXECUTIVES OF TELECOM COMPANIES...

L-R: President, Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria, Gbenga Adebayo; Executive Commissioner, Technical Services, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Ubale Maska; Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, NCC, Aminu Maida; Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management, NCC, Adeleke Adewolu; and President, Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria, Tony Emoekpere, at NCC EVC’s interactive session with chief executives of telecom companies in Nigeria, in Lagos ... yesterday

Gender Inclusiveness: Senate Advocates Recruitment of More Women in Security Agencies Advocates upward review of constituency projects funds Stops bill seeking to legalise scheme Confirms Maida's appointment as executive vice chairman, NCC Sunday Aborisade in Abuja The Senate yesterday advocated the recruitment and inclusion of more women in security agencies to guarantee gender inclusivity.

The Chairman, Senate Committee on Women Affairs, Senator Ireti Kingibe, made the call in Abuja, at a three-day Strategic Sensitisation Workshop with Senior officers of defence and security agencies and relevant committees of the National Assembly The training was jointly organised by the National Institute

for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), UN Women and the National Defence College.

The workshop had as its theme: ‘Enhancing Gender-Responsive Security Operation and Community Dialogue Project (Phase II).’

Kingibe, who is representing the Federal Capital Territory at the 10th Senate on the platform of the Labour Party also called for the promotion of diversity and inclusivity within the security forces for gender responsiveness.

She said, "There is the need to also encourage the recruitment of

WHO: Nigeria's Health Sector Requires Action-backed Reforms Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja As Nigeria grapples with the challenges of addressing poor health sector indices, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has advised the federal government to implement drastic reforms that would achieve better results.

It said beyond rethorics, there should be radical shift from mere concepts to clear actions with measurable results.

In a goodwill message presented by the WHO Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, at the ongoing 64th National Council on Health (NCH), in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, the global health body urged the country to leverage on the strengths and opportunities of each tier of government to come up with feasible, less complex, and sustainable strategies that will work and yield result.

He described the NCH event with the theme “Building Resilience and Inclusive Healthcare System for a Healthy Nigeria,” as a historic event that would empower and inspire stakeholders towards promoting health, providing health and protecting the health of all Nigerians without leaving anyone behind.

"With the burden of out-of-pocket expenditure on health which is the highest in the region, a growing burden of non-communicable diseases on the background of high burden of communicable

diseases, high maternal and childhood mortality rates, an unpredictable landscape in terms of multiple health emergencies, and a growing population, the health sector in Nigeria certainly requires an uncommon reform.

"It is heart-warming that Nigeria has prioritised primary healthcare and health financing as accelerators towards achieving UHC and the SDGs. “What will be useful is a radical shift from mere concepts to clear actions with measurable results in line with the recommitment of member states at the international conference to celebrate the 45th anniversary of Alma-Ata and 5th anniversary of Astana declarations on primary health care in Astana Kazakhstan, last month," he said.

Mulombo, said the NCH provided a unique opportunity for the leaders of the Federal Ministry of Health and the State Ministries of Health with support from partners to evaluate implementation, co-create new ideas, and take far-reaching decisions on the future of the health sector in Nigeria.

According to him, the subthemes of the 64th NCH were appropriate as they focused on the critical issues of health workforce, evidence-based research and development, health systems governance and access towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC), digital transformation in health, and innovative financing.

more women and prepare pathway for their professional development and leadership within the security force."

She said including women in all spheres of governance would guarantee their inclusion politically and security-wise.

"We are the giant of Africa and we need to start thinking like the giant in every way. As long as we don't legislate on issues on women, we won't achieve more," she added.

The lawmaker also called for the implementation of training programmes for security personnel to raise their awareness about gender dynamics.

In his presentation, representative of UN Women, Mr Peter Mancha, said that women were largely excluded from peace building processes.

"We have failed to utilise the potential that women have to contribute to conflict prevention and peace building.

"If we want to have sustainable peace, we must bring women to the table because of their potential."

He said legislators were very critical actors in ensuring the security of women calling on the need to have laws formulated that

were gender responsive.

"We need to have lawmakers who will have oversight functions to ensure that gender responsiveness is fully achieved."

Earlier, Director-General NILDS, Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman said no stone would be left unturned to ensure that all laws were gender friendly and seek to achieve gender equality.

Sulaiman who was represented

by Prof. Shadrach Best said, "We hope that after this project is concluded, we will see a more robust security sector in Nigeria and a more gender friendly and gender inclusive security sector."

In the meantime, the Senate has advocated increment in the money allocated to lawmakers to fund constituency projects.

The Senate also dumped a bill seeking to provide for Constituency and other Special Projects in the Annual Budget of the Federation and for Related Matters.

The bill sponsored by Senator Babaginda Hussaini (APC, Jigawa North-West) yesterday, failed to scale to a second reading.

The lawmakers argued that more funds would enable them drive constituency projects in their

various constituencies and have the money appropriated for in Nigeria’s annual budget.

Constituency Project has always been a subject of controversy with plenty of misgivings and even misrepresentations particularly due to the fact it’s usually shrouded in secrecy.

In his lead debate, Hussaini explained that the constituency project was not peculiar to Nigeria and that it was one of the most effective ways of ensuring equitable distribution of development across the country.

He added that it helps draw governance and the dividends of democracy closer to the people at the grassroots that they represent.

The bill was very popular among federal lawmakers with many of them speaking in favour of it and seizing the opportunity to press for more money for constituency projects within their constituency.

He said, “The provisions of this Act shall apply, as more specifically Object and purpose of the Bill provided for in the Act, and shall ensure that specific portions of the Federal Annual Budget are devoted to the Constituencies for infrastructural development, wealth

creation, social development and the fight against poverty at the Constituency level.

“The list of proposed projects to be covered by this Act shall include only Projects on either the Exclusive List or those on the Concurrent List to obviate against any breach of Constitutional Provisions.

“The Member shall submit the project proposal to the Appropriation Committee for input into the Budget.”

Other lawmakers like Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun ( APC, Lagos Central) and Kawu Sumaila ( Kano South) also supported the motion.

Meanwhile, the Senate yesterday, confirmed the nomination of Dr Aminu Maida for appointment as Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

This followed the adoption and approval of the recommendation of the Senate Committee on Communications chaired by Senator Ikra Aliyu Bilbis (PDP Zamfara Central) by the Senate at plenary.

Senator Bilbis in his report said Maidia met all the lawful and academic criteria to be appointed as NCC’s boss.

Afreximbank Launches African Gastronomy, Culinary Arts Programme The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has launched an African Gastronomy and Culinary Arts Programme under its Creative Africa Nexus Initiative (CANEX).

Launched during the just concluded third Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2023) in Cairo, the CANEX African Gastronomy and Culinary Arts Programme is the newest vertical within the CANEX programme and featured nine celebrity chefs from Africa and the Caribbean taking part in masterclasses, live cooking demonstrations and conversations with culinary experts.

According to a statement, the inaugural session of the programme, concluded with a live demonstration, dubbed the “Jollof Wars” to highlight the unique flavours and cultural diversity of

Jollof rice among Nigeria, Ghana and Senegal.

President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, Prof. Benedict Oramah, said the introduction of the programme would help refocus continental efforts towards local food production to ensure food security, reduce high food costs and imports and minimise the impact of external shocks on Africa’s food supply chain.

He described the programme as an opportunity for the promotion of African cuisine to develop trade and local food value chain through promotion of local foods, highlight their superior health benefits to local and regional communities and support local restauranteurs and entrepreneurs to upgrade the dining experience through skills

development and capacity building.

The programme would also improve access to finance to help build sector infrastructure, such as restaurants, franchises and packaged goods production plants, to develop the local food value chains and increase employment opportunities.

The launch featured a live demonstration and conversation with the Afreximbank President and Dr. Pamela Coke-Hamilton, Executive Director, International Trade Center, tracing the African food journey and its influence on food culture in the Caribbean, the Americas and globally.

The programme which was developed by African Food Changemakers had participating chefs Davisha Burrowes, Development Chef, Yolk Brands, Barbados; Christian Abegan, CEO

Abegan & Co, Cameroon; Natasha de Bourg, President, Trinidad Culinary Limited, and Chef Stone of Red Dish Chronicles, Nigeria.

Oramah said the programme would develop an enabling ecosystem from farm to table and would address issues such as food sustainability, GMOs, local farming, the business of franchising and the art of African cuisine.

Afreximbank introduced its African Gastronomy Development Framework to finance the development and expansion of food service market infrastructure, support production of local packaged goods and other value-add products and facilitate training and capacity development of African chefs and sous chef, food technologists, nutritionists, food safety specialist, etc.

33

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2023

NEWS

A ROUNDTABLE COLLABORATION… L-R; CEO, Inside Watch Magazine, Seyi Adeyemi; MD PhiIlip Consulting Limited, Rob Taiwo; Commissioner of Tourism Edo State, Dr Uyi Jennifer Oduwa Malaka; Partner Pcl, Dele Phillips; CEO Aviators Africa, Toni Ukachukwu and Founder/CEO, Most Influential People of African Descent( MIPAD), Kamil Olwafolabi during the round table collaboration between Phillips Consulting Limited and Nigeria South-Africa Chamber of Commerce to Redefine Tourism in Nigeria in Lagos...recently

Ganduje: We'll Use Imo as Base to Liberate South-east APC group mobilises for 2027, inaugurates executives Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdulahi Ganduje, has said the ruling party would use Imo State as launch-pad to take over the remaining states in the South-east. Ganduje stated this yesterday, when Minister of Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, and Enugu State APC Chairman paid him a courtesy visit at the national secretariat of the party in Abuja.

The APC national chairman said he was aware that there

were crises in the state chapters of the party, but added that the APC national leadership had set up a reconciliation committee to reunite the warring factions.

Ganduje, who noted that the ruling party would consolidate its presence in the South-east, said, “We won election in all the 27 local governments in Imo State. We won the governorship election with over half a million votes in Imo. So, we are going to use Imo as base for liberating the South-east.”

Earlier, Nnaji said their visit

was part of an ongoing effort to strengthen the party in Enugu State.

Meanwhile, some chieftains of APC launched a new group, Consolidated APC Grassroots Movement (CAGraM), to mobilise support for the party ahead of the 2027 general election.

The group also said its target was to produce one of the members as the presidential candidate of APC in 2031.

National Secretary of CAGraM, Emmanuel Nwosu, while addressing a press

conference in Abuja, said as its midterm goal, the group would embark on grassroots mobilisation for the ruling party ahead of the next general election.

Nwosu said, “Our long term goal is to ensure that one of us or one of our leaders, who will keep faith with this organisation from now until 2031; takes over power as President of Nigeria in 2031.

Yes we can and we will.

“Our immediate goal is to ensure that all of us, who laboured day and night to

Osun CJ, Ojo Drags Adeleke to Court over Alleged Plan to Remove Her from Office Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo The Chief Justice of Osun State, Justice, Adepele Ojo has dragged the State Governor, Ademola Adeleke before the National Industrial Court sitting in Ibadan over alleged plan to remove her as the Chief Judge of the state.

Joined in the suit were the State Attorney General, Osun State Judicial Service Commission and the State Accountant General.

A Coalition of civil society organisations in Osun State had on Wednesday, accused Adeleke of plotting to remove the Chief Judge, by allegedly submitting a petition against the judge to the National Judicial Council.

Addressing journalists in Osogbo on behalf of the group, Mr Ayo Ologun, claimed that the initial plan of the governor was to remove the Chief Judge through a motion by the House of Assembly, but the plan was

allegedly dropped for the option of dragging the CJ before the NJC. Ologun said the group had written a counter-petition to NJC, warning that any attempt by public office holders to disregard the rule of law would be resisted.

However, in the motion dated 15th November, 2023, a copy obtained by journalists in Osogbo yesterday, the plaintiff is seeking "an order of interim injunction restraining the defendants by themselves or their agents or privies, however so called from interfering with, removing, reversing or terminating the appointment and conditions of service of the claimant as the Chief Judge of Osun State, including but not limited to salaries and other pecuniary benefits, pending the determination of the interlocutory application.

"An order of mandating the 4th defendant to continue to

pay the salary, entitlements, emoluments, remuneration and other benefits and moneys the claimant is entitled to as the Chief Judge of Osun State pending the determination of the interlocutory application."

The court after hearing the application, ordered, "an order of interim injunction is issued restraining the Defendants by themselves or their agents or previews howsoever so-called from interfering with removing, reversing or terminating the appointment and conditions of service of the Applicant as the as the Hon. Chief Judge of Osun State including but not limited to salaries and other pecuniary benefits pending the determination of the interlocutory application.

"An order is here issued mandating the 4th Defendant to continue to pay the salary, entitlements, emoluments and

other benefits and moneys the Applicant is entitled to as the Hon. Chief Judge of Osun State pending the determination of the interlocutory application.

"Taking cognisance of the gender of the Applicant as a wife, a mother and a grandmother, the 1" Defendant as the Chief Security Officer of Osun State with keys to all security apparatus is ordered and directed to ensure adequate protection to the Applicant from all forms of harassment and from all quarters pending the hearing and determination of the originating summons.

"Finally, it was directed that the 2 Defendant as the Chief Law Officer of Osun State will appropriately Defendants in general and the 1" Defendant in particular on the imperative of complying fully with the orders of this court."

The case was adjourned till December 12, 2023

ensure the victory of our great party, APC, at the 2023 presidential polls, are handsomely rewarded. We all made unquantifiable sacrifices during the presidential campaign, and many of our compatriots lost their lives in the cause of the campaign.

“For that reason, we will vigorously and painstakingly engage all our elected and appointed party leaders, starting with our dear President, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to ensure that our sacrifices do not go to waste."

Azikel Petroleum Refinery Sign $259m Project Deal with Afreximbank Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa The Azikel Petroleum Refinery, a subsidiary of the Azikel Group has signed a debt funding deal with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) for the on-going Azikel refinery project.

In a statement released in Cairo by Afreximbank, the financial close reached with Azikel Petroleum Refinery was achieved at the intra-African Trade Fair 2023 held on the 9th to 15th November 2023 in Cairo, Egypt.

The debt funding agreement was signed by the President of Azikel Group, who is also the Chairman of the Azikel Petroleum Refinery, Dr. Azibapu Eruani and the Director, Project and Asset Based Finance of Afreximbank, Helen Brume on behalf of Afreximbank.

Present to witness the agreement signing were the Presidents of Egypt, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Zimbabwe, Emmerson Mnangagwa, Malawi, Lazarus Chakwera, Former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Former Vice President of Nigeria, Nnamadi

Sambo and the President of Afreximbank, Prof. Benedict Oramah.

The Azikel Refinery Project is aimed to bring relief to the challenges of refined petroleum products insufficiency in Nigeria.

Speaking after the signing ceremony, Eruani, reiterated his commitment to the development of Nigeria and the African continent by his passion in guaranteeing the country's industrialisation creating energy sufficiency and sustainable development.

He said further that Nigeria would be the hub of refined products and the abundance of clean energy which would be exported to the African continent and beyond.

Eruani, who shared the optimism that Africa would achieve energy sufficiency, explained that Azikel Refinery was the First Private Hydroskimming refinery in Nigeria and also the only Condensate Feedstock utilizing refinery in Africa billed to produce refined products of Euro V grade, thereby ensuring cleaner energy and environmental protection.

Nigeria Urgently Needs Workable Measures to End Extreme Poverty, Says Asije

A member of the Global Citizen to End Extreme Poverty, Victor Asije, has reminded federal, states and local governments in Nigeria of the urgent need to evolve workable measures to end extreme poverty in Nigeria.

Global Citizen is a platform dedicated to achieving the end of extreme poverty powered by a community of millions of global citizens, who strongly believe in one world, one people-where everyone has an equal chance to thrive.

In a statement obtained yesterday, Asije also called on more Nigerian philanthropists, well-meaning individuals, the private sector and civil society organisations to urgently begin to rededicate themselves to ending extreme poverty in Nigeria.

Asije, who said he was not unaware of governments past and current efforts at reducing poverty, added that millions of Nigerians were increasingly grappling with extreme poverty.

"Because we at the Global

Citizen strongly believes in one world, one people-where everyone has an equal chance to thrive, I am drawing our governments' attention to the current menace of extreme poverty in and around Nigerians.

"I do know that extreme poverty, like every other human challenges is global, but I am humbly appealing to our governments' to be selfless in ending extreme poverty in this country, up just as governments in other countries of the world

are also currently being called to do.

"As governments, some of us know and should know the dehumanising effects of extreme poverty. Extreme poverty slows down personal and national development, retards, stunts, blinds, disappoints, deforms, provokes anger, crime, rudeness, disobedience, misdirection, cluelessness, misunderstanding and other emotional and psychosocial problems," he said.

According to Asije, extreme

poverty was the most severe type of poverty, defined by the United Nations as, "a condition characterised by severe deprivation of basic human needs, including food, safe drinking water, sanitation facilities, health, shelter, education and information.".

The International Society of Diplomats (ISD) Special Emissary on Media to Nigeria said the National Bureau of Statistics (NBA) in its November 2022 report had revealed that 133

million Nigerians were "multidimensionally poor".

"In that report, the National Bureau of Statistics(NBS) said that 63 percent of Nigerians were poor due to a lack of access to health, education, living standards, employment and security.

"A UN State of Food Security and Nutrition in World (SOFI) report in the same year, found out that the prevalence of hunger is highest in Africa. And when you talk of Africa, you are technically referring to Nigeria," he added.

34

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2023

NEWS

UNVEILING THE GUIDELINES FOR SOLID MINERAL SECTOR …

R-L: The Honorable Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, National executive, Women in Mining, Nigeria, Ambassador, Regina Edzuwah and President, Miners Association, Mr. Dele Ayanleke during the Unveiling of the Pamphlet, “Guidelines for the Production of Community Development Agreements (CDAs) in the Solid Mineral Sector” organized by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development (MSMD) in collaboration with the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development in Abuja...yesterday

FJSC Shortlists 22 Justices for Elevation to Supreme Court Bench Alex Enumah in Abuja

The Federal Judicial Service Commission (FJSC) has shortlisted 22 justices of the appellate court for elevation to the bench of the

Supreme Court of Nigeria.

The move is aimed at filling vacant positions at the apex court as well as ensuring that the bench of the Supreme Court is brought to its full complement of 21 justices.

Tight Security as NNPP, APC Know Fate Today in Kano’s Guber Appeal State govt sues for calm Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano Security agencies have beefed up effort in Kano State ahead of the judgment in the governorship appeal between the New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP), and the All Progressive Congress (APC) today.

To this extent, the Kano State Police Command in conjunction with other security agencies, has warned troublemakers not to jeopardise the security arrangements in the state.

The lower court had in a landmark judgment last September, sacked Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of the NNPP, and declared Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna of APC as duly elected governor.

But there was uneasy calm in the ancient city of Kano yesterday, as residents awaited the announcement of the Court of Appeal to deliver its ruling on the contentious governorship poll between the two parties.

Chief Press Secretary to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, in a press statement, broke the news.

He said, "Appeal court to deliver judgment on Kano Election Petition tomorrow, Friday, 17th November 2023 by 10:00 am in Abuja. This information is contained in a letter sent to our legal team today."

However, in a joint press conference led by the State Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Usaini Gumel, said they had engaged the two party

leaders and agreed to ensure peace during and after the court verdict.

His words: "No politically motivated clusters of people would be allowed at any location under whatever guise. That, their supporters would not engage in any mass action suggesting preparation for violent procession, protests or celebrations that may trigger reactions."

Gumel warned against unguarded statements from party members, which he said was likely to increase political tension or undermine the security arrangements and sanctity of the Judiciary.

"That, they will remain committed to on behalf of their parties monitor, adhere and comply with the details contained in the peace accord signed before the Kano State Police Command.

"That, their parties will support all the arrangements put in place by the security apparatus to maintain peace and order. That, any person or group of persons directly or indirectly found disrupting the peace before, during, and after the Appeal Judgment shall face the full wrath of the Law," he stated.

Also, in another statement by the Commissioner for Information, Baba Halilu Dantiye, the state government has advised people in the state to remain calm and avoid acts capable of causing a breach of the peace as the Appeal Court delivers judgment today.

The apex court bench had witnessed continued depletion in the last two years owing to deaths and retirements without any commensurate appointments.

As at today, the bench comprises 10 justices, including the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) who doubles as the chairman of the FJSC, National Judicial Council (NJC), National Judicial Institute (NJI) and all other agencies in the judiciary.

While Nigerians including senior advocates have made several calls in support of appointing new justices for over two years now, THISDAY on Thursday learnt that the FJSC had shortlisted and forwarded 22 Justices from the appellate court to

the NJC to be appointed as justices of the Supreme Court.

The FJSC’s document, although was not confirmed by the NJC, revealed a regional distribution of nominees.

Notably, the North-central region has six nominations, while the South-west and South-south regions each has two. The South-east and North-east regions both have six and two nominees, respectively.

The announcement followed disclosure in September 2023, that the Supreme Court’s Justices had diminished to 10 as against 21 stipulated by the constitution.

When contacted to confirm the list, NJC's Director of Information, Mr Soji Oye said: "I do not know,

so cannot confirm the authenticity".

According to the document, those shortlisted include: Hon. Justice Nwaoma Uwa (Abia State), Hon. Justice Onyekachi Otisi (Abia State), Hon. Justice Obande Ogbuinya (Ebonyi State), Hon. Justice Theresa Orji-Abadua (Imo State), Hon. Justice Anthony Ogakwu (Enugu State) and Hon. Justice Chioma Nwosu-Iheme (Imo State), for the South-east.

From the South-south were : Justice Moore Adumein (Bayelsa State) and Justice Biobele Georgewill (Rivers State). Justice Adewale Abiru (Lagos State) and Justice Olubunmi Oyewole (Osun State) were selected from the South-west.

From the North-central, those selected included: Justice Jummai Sankey (Plateau State), Justice Muhammad Ibrahim Sirajo (Plateau), Justice Stephen Adah (Kogi State), Justice Ridman Abdullahi (Nassarawa State), Justice Baba Idris (Niger State) and Justice Joseph Ikyegh (Benue State).

Besides, those picked from the North-east included: Justice Haruna Simon Tsammani (Bauchi State) and Justice Abubakar Talba (Adamawa State), while from the Northwest were Justice Muhammad Shuaibu (Jigawa State), Justice Bello Aliyu (Zamfara State) and Justice Abubakar Umar (Kebbi State). Also included was Justice Abdullahi Bayero (Kano State).

Ex-Malawian President, Banda, Soludo Seek Unity among African Countries to Stem Theft of Natural Resources Obi blames bad leadership for continent's woes David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka Former President of Malawi, Dr Joyce Banda, has said uniting Africa under the name of the United States Of Africa would stop exploitation of the continent's natural resources.

She said the neo-colonial attitude of the West towards Nigeria could be stopped through unity among African countries.

The former president spoke at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, during the 12th Annual Zik Lecture Series in honour of Late Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe.

Speaking under the theme: ‘Reclaiming Ziks World: Climate Justice And Africa's Sustainable Development,’ Banda lamented that Africa was not completely free, given the fact that there was a monumental flight and exploitation of the continent's natural resources by her former colonisers.

"We in Africa are not completely free and these are facts that we cannot wish away, and Africa has

continued to be at the receiving end of the climatic change.

"This is occasioned by the looting of African resources which of course led to the climatic change and we African leaders have the responsibility to preserve our future and the future of our children.

"Those of us who are Presidents and governors must tell ourselves that the natural resources on our land belong to the people that we are leading and do not belong to our pockets.

"We must inform ourselves that the wealth of our nation is not ours and as leaders we are custodians of that wealth on behalf of the people that we lead."

In his contribution, Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, who shared the same view said it was a new dawn in Africa, noting that the continent was going back to Zikist ideology which was about one united livable and prosperous Africa.

"And I think that message shall

be in our minds to build and form one nation and with that we face the rest of the world.

"It is important that we must forge one United Africa and Her Excellency, when you leave here, I want you to take this message as a former President, that we must come together and form a common peace, and that it is time to go back to that Zikist era with the slogan Africa Unite. Without unity of Africa all that we are doing to make a change cannot be actualised," he said.

The presidential candidate of Labour Party in the 2023 general election and former Anambra State Governor, Mr Peter Obi, who was also at the function identified bad leadership as tje root of Africa's problems.

"My contribution is that the problems of Africa and Nigeria rest squarely on bad leadership and it is bad leadership that is the burden of Africa and it is not the colonisers.

"I give you example of our problem here in Nigeria: As a professor your salary is N400,000.00 and if they pay you without spending your money for 30 years, your salary will amount to N144 million which is not up to what we use to buy cars for our legislators in Nigeria.

"This university gets about N10 million from the federal government as subvention monthly and for one year it would be about N120 million.

"We have 500 professors, 4,000 lecturers and 40,000 students and so five of our universities will get about N600 million annually, which when converted to dollars is about $500,000.00 and that is what we use to go to meeting of United Nations for one week. That is our problem in Nigeria," he said.

The event was chaired by Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, and attended by Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Prof Charles Esimone, Senator Ndi Obi and a host of others.

35

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2023

NEWS

VISIT TO BOI IN FURTHERANCE OF PARTNERSHIPS FOR EDUCATIONAL AND ENTREPRENEURIAL INITIATIVES...

L-R: Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education, Madam Abiola Arogundade and Managing Director of the Bank of Industry, Dr Olasupo Olusi, during an official consultative visit to BOI’s Corporate Headquarters at the CBD, Abuja by Madam Arogundade to foster partnerships for educational and entrepreneurial initiatives, on Wednesday

Small Arms Memes: EU, ECOWAS, Stakeholders Seek Presidential Assent to Weapons Center Bill Call for strong legislative support to curb arms’ proliferation It undermines national security, says NSA

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja In a renewed bid to contain the proliferation of small and light weapons in Nigeria and the West African sub-region, the European Union (EU), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and other stakeholders, yesterday, called for presidential assent to the "National Commission for the Coordination and Control of the Proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons Bill, 2022 before President Bola Tinubu.”

The roundtable themed: "Mapping the Landscape of SALW Proliferation in Nigeria: Gaps and Opportunities" also called for stronger legislative support to curb the menace of small and light weapons in the country.

This came as the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, said the proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons remained a scourge that undermined national security,

noting that it was a challenge that no single entity could combat alone.

National Coordinator of the National Center for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, Maj Gen Abba Dikko (rtd) said, "a crucial step forward, however, will be the Presidential assent to the Centre's Bill, which is anticipated to provide the legal authority necessary for better operational effectiveness."

The ECOWAS Convention on the Proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons was adopted on June 14, 2006 and came into effect in 2009.

The convention sought to promote the establishment of a regional database of arms, enhance weapons’ control at border posts, review and harmonise legislation and administrative procedures governing small arms, as well as the destruction of surplus and unauthorised weapons.

In addition, it further sought to

Bauchi Guber: CP Reads Riot Act Ahead Appeal Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi The Nigeria Police Force, Bauchi State Command, has warned the general public that all forms of celebrations and rallies by political party supporters for or against winners/losers in the Gubernatorial Election Petition judgement from Court of Appeal, Abuja, between Governor Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir and Air Marshal Sadiq Baba Abubakar.

This warning by the Commissioner of Police, Bauchi State Command, CP Auwal Musa Muhammad, was contained in a press release by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Ahmed Mohammad Wakil.

The CP also warned that, "The blissful supporters must comport themselves in line with the provisions of the law; blockage of roads, fireworks, and inciting utterances or blackmailing opposition party would not be condoned.

"The Command will not hesitate to decisively deal with any person(s) or group(s) who violate this order or deliberately cause the breakdown of law and order in whatever manner.

"Those in violation will be arrested and made to face the full wrath of the law as security agencies have been deployed strategically and directed to ensure full enforcement.

"Against this development, the Commissioner of Police Bauchi State Command, CP Auwal Musa Muhammad, urges members of the public to cooperate with the security agencies as many Police operatives will be seen at strategic areas, routes, and communities to suppress the antics and criminal act of underworld personalities."

He also encouraged the public "not to be tight-lipped in providing useful information that will aid the security agencies to effectively maintain the serenity and ensure the protection of lives and property in the state.”

promote a culture of peace and facilitate education and public awareness on the issues of small arms and light weapons (SALW).

Speaking at the meeting, Leader of the ECOWAS delegation in charge of Peace Support Operations, Dr Mohammed Adamu, called for presidential assent to the bill to enable the center function effectively.

He said there was a compelling need to engender "the required national political will and the application of the required national resources to be able to fight this fight.

But I would like to also say what is consistently missing is the need for us to put in place the institutional as

well as implementation arrangement.

"There's the need for legislation to be able to allow the center to actually fully, effectively continue this excellent work that they are doing.

I'm happy the bill is already before the president, which eventually, as soon as it's signed, is assented to, will be able to see that in the region, in all the 15 member states of ECOWAS, its only Nigeria that is yet to put in place through an act of parliament.

"But I would say if it’s an institutional implementation arrangement, Nigerian government has demonstrated strong political will to be able to actually accompany this process of implementing the

ECOWAS convention.

"I would like to actually commend the government for this very, very important support and looking forward, you know, towards getting the bill that will help to transform the centre into a legally binding, I mean legal institution; an institution that is legally constituted to combat arms proliferation."

In her remarks, the Programme Manager for EU delegation to Nigeria and Africa, Mrs Eno Moma, said illicit weapons threatened the democratic process and institutions.

"As you may well know, illicit weapons, which are now, even more readily available threaten electoral processes, weaken police

authority, promote sexual violence and undermine security efforts to maintain peace.

"This is particularly worrisome in the face of the rise of criminal activity and violent extremism within the country and beyond its borders," she said.

She affirmed that, "With a total budget of EUR 24.4 million, this project is part of the regional effort to combat organised crime and trafficking in persons in West Africa by reducing the availability and illicit trafficking of SALW at border community level and strengthening cross-border cooperation as well as the capacity of national actors on SALW control."

Ondo Exco Members Pass Confidence Vote in Akeredolu Two commissioners fail to append signatures Say it's work of desperate politicians Fidelis David in Akure Members of the Ondo State executive council have passed vote of confidence in Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, expressing faith in his ability and capability to continue to lead the state.

But two of the Commissioners, Razak Obe of the Ministry of Energy and Minerals Resources, and Commissioner for Commerce Industry and Cooperatives, Samson Sowore, did not append signatures against their names.

This, however, came amidst protest by the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), demanding to know the whereabouts of Governor Akeredolu, who returned to the country on September 7 after his three months medical leave in Germany and had since remained in Ibadan, where he landed.

In a statement jointly signed by the state executive council and other political appointees, the EXCO unanimously declared their unflinching trust in Akeredolu and endorsed his impactful leadership.

In the document, out of 35

cabinet members, 33 signed while the two others failed to append their signatures.

"In fulfillment of our dedicated responsibilities to advance the programmes and policies of the Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredoluled administration, encapsulated in the REDEEMED agenda, aimed at enhancing the lives of the people and fostering development across the state, we proudly commend the people’s governor for the unprecedented progress under his leadership.

"As members of the State Executive Council, we have imbibed the principles of good governance, integrity, and commitment from the very best – Governor Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON. The courage and exemplary leadership consistently displayed by Mr. Governor continue to motivate and inspire us to fulfill our duties "Without hesitation, Mr. Governor is a blessing to the good people of Ondo State. His leadership has been rewarding and inspirational.

Governor Akeredolu is not only a worthy leader but also a national asset, who passionately pursues

the welfare of the country. This patriotic leadership is characterised by unwavering courage in leading the people of the Sunshine State towards prosperity and progress.

"As Mr. Governor’s foot soldiers, we take immense pride in being under his leadership Witnessing his dedication, sleepless nights, and commitment to protecting and serving the people of the state, despite numerous challenges in the past, is truly admirable. His leadership embodies compassion, vision, and commitment to development, progress, and peace."

But the two commissioners refused to append signatures against their names.

When contacted, the Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives, Samson Sowore, said the move was the work of desperate politicians in the state in order to create crisis.

"The vote passed by the members of the cabinet in the state in a situation like this does not count, because in the first place, we are the appointees of Mr. Governor. We can't even say that we don't have confidence in him.

“Anybody that doesn't have confidence in his government have to resign, so by pushing vote of confidence as far as I'm concerned, it does not make sense, we don't have power to remove the governor as members of the cabinet.

"So, passing vote of confidence on Governor in the first place does not add anything to Mr. Governor.

So, it is the work of those desperate politicians in the state in order to create crisis when there is no crisis.”

Commissioner for Energy and Minerals Resources, Razak Obe, said, "I'm in Lagos as I speak to you, I left Akure yesterday to attend a conference and I communicated that to the Chief of Staff before I left.

“So later they were asking for my signature to be appended on a document, they called it vote of confidence and I asked if anyone share a copy with me so that I will know the content before appending my signature.

"No executive meeting was held, nothing like that. So I was careful dropping my signature on a document that I didn't know anything about."

36

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2023

NEWS

NIGERIA, ANTHOLOGY PARTNER TO IMPROVE EDUCATION...

L-R: Country Director and Head of Business, Pole Globa Marketing, Anthology’s Channel Partner for Nigeria, Adedeji Michael Ladipo; Senior Vice President & Managing Director, Head of Europe, Middle East and Africa and Asia and Pacific, Anthology, Oleg Figlin; President and Chairman, Anthology, Mr. Joe Belenardo; Minister of Education, Mamman Tahir, SAN; Executive Secretary, Tertiary Education Trust Fund(TETFund), Sunny Echono, and Senior Vice President in Charge of Africa, Anthology, Nicolas Albouze, during a visit to the office of the minister in Abuja…yesterday

NEMSA Moves for More Inspectorate Offices to Enforce Standards in Electricity Sector

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

The Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) is set to create more inspectorate field offices in all states of the federation in a bid to enforce technical standards, regulations and codes in the electricity sector across the country.

The establishment Act mandates the agency to enforce technical standards and regulations, technical inspection, testing and certification of all categories of electrical installations, electricity meters and instruments, to ensure the efficient production and delivery of safe, reliable and sustainable electricity power supply, as well as guarantee safety of lives and property in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) and other allied industries/workplaces.

NEMSA Managing Director/ CEO, Aliyu Tukur Tahir, who spoke during an interactive session with journalists in Abuja, yesterday, noted that the roles, responsibilities and functions of NEMSA were very critical in the power sector and at the same

time enormous, adding that for effective coverage of the length and breadth of the country, enough engineers and technical personnel were needed.

According to him, in order to provide NEMSA wider coverage across the country, more inspectorate field offices will be created in all states in all states "Thankfully, the government is doing its bit in this direction.

However, with the evolving global trend in electricity generation, transmission, especially as the world is tilting towards renewable energy, there is need for our engineers and technical staff to be trained and retrained.

"This training will provide the requisite knowledge our engineers," Tahir said, stressing that as an enforcement agency, NEMSA was determined to continue to carry out its statutory functions of technical inspection, testingand certification of all electrical materials and equipment in the electricity industry NEMSA, he disclosed, was among the first government agencies to be ISI-certified.

Labour Unions, Pensioners Laud Sani for Releasing N3.1bn for Gratuities John Shiklam in Kaduna Leaders of trade unions and pensioners in Kaduna State have commended the State Governor, Senator Uba Sani for the timely release of N3.1billion for payment of gratuities and death benefits under the Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS) and the Contributory Pension Schemes (CPS).

The State chapters of Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria and the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) in separate letters of commendations, praised the governor for the proactive release of the funds especially in the face of current economic realities.

They maintained that the gesture would serve as an immediate intervention that would alleviate the suffering of both the retirees and the families of those who have died.

“We write to appreciate Your Excellency for the approval and release of N3.1 billion for the payment of gratuity for retirees and death benefits for families of the deceased retirees. While pledging support to the governor, the unions advocated for the constitution of the board of the Kaduna State Pension Bureau to ensure total transparency in the system.

"This honourable gesture will serve as an immediate intervention

that will alleviate the suffering of both the retirees and the families of our fallen heroes that served our dear state diligently," the NLC stated in their letter signed by its Chairman, Ayuba Suleiman.

In their letters, the NUP and the TUC, applauded the governor for approving the money to pay gratuities and death benefits, noting that it would go a long way in alleviating the suffering of retirees and families of deceased workers.

“For inclusiveness and to strengthen the judicial utiliation of these funds even in the future, we are advocating for the constitution of the Board of the Bureau in accordance with section 20 of the Kaduna State Pension Reform (Amended) Law, 2020", the unions stated in their letters.

In October 2023, the State government had approved the release of N3.1billion for the payment of gratuity to retirees and death benefits for families of the deceased under the Defined Benefit Scheme and the Contributory Pension Schemes.

According to the Kaduna State Pension Bureau, over 1,000 retirees and families of deceased beneficiaries were to benefit from the pension funds released as the verification exercise for the payments had commenced in the three senatorial districts of the state.

Listing some of the achievements of the agency, he revealed that it had tested and calibrated over 2.6 million

meters inspected and tested 21,681 electricity installations projects, monitored 16, 624 electricity networks, inspected, tested and

certified fit about 4,921 factories, hazardous installations and public places nationwide.

He disclosed that a number

of prosecutions had been made by the agency for breach of recommended standards with four convictions secured.

Service Chiefs, IG Shun House Invitation We'll enact laws to address causes of insecurity, says Abbas

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja and Okon Bassey in Uyo

Sectoral debates introduced by the House of Representatives hit the rocks yesterday after the service chiefs and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), failed to honour the invitation to appear before the House.

But the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has said the 10th House would enact legislation to address the root causes of security challenges in Nigeria.

The sectoral debates organized by the House suffered after the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa; Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar; Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice

Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, failed to honour the invitation to appear before the House.

In anticipation of the meeting with the service chiefs yesterday, the Speaker had on Wednesday instructed that the Order Paper for yesterday be made light to give more time for the interaction.

The inaugural session was earlier scheduled to commence last Thursday, November 9, 2023 with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Dr. Olayemi Cardoso and his deputies but was postponed.

The sectoral debate was introduced in Pursuant to Order 17, Rules 1(3) of the Standing Orders of the House. But the service chiefs billed to appear yesterday sent representatives.

Following a motion by the House

Leader, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, at plenary, which was seconded by Hon Aliyu Madaki, the representatives were introduced into the Chamber.

However, after the selfintroduction by the representatives of the service chiefs and the IGP, the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, objected, saying although the representatives were competent in their capacities, they would not be allowed to speak on behalf of their principals.

“Mr. Speaker, I want to move that the Chief Executives, be it private sector or public sector, must come in person. I want to pray that we don’t break this sacred tradition of our House less we be taken for granted.

“I therefore, move that this sectoral engagement be suspended until the leaders of the agencies that we invited, who are our friends,

who are working for Nigeria, people we are proud of, come. They should come to address us, take our questions and explain certain things to us,” he said.

After Kalu's motion, which was seconded by Hon. Nnolim Nnaji, the speaker put the motion to a voice vote and it was adopted by the House.

He said: “Our dear brothers, you have heard from the House in an emphatic manner, that this House does not encourage, does not accept representation particularly at this high-level engagement.

“We thank you for coming. Please convey our message to your service chiefs, that we understand the tight schedules they have and we are willing to make an adjustment to reschedule this engagement to Tuesday next week for them to appear in person.”

FG: Nigeria on Course to Develop National Biodiversity Strategy Michael Olugbode in Abuja The federal government has said the nation was on course to develop a practical, inclusive and ambitious National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan.

Speaking in Abuja, yesterday, at the Inception Workshop for the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework( KMGBF) Early Action Support Project, the Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziaq Salako said: “Biodiversity underpins life on earth, from human health and well-being

to food and water security to economies and livelihoods. Yet biodiversity is severely threatened and declining at unprecedented levels due to increasing pollution, resource exploitation, land use change, invasive species, and climate change, among other factors.”

He noted that: “National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) are the policy instruments for national implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).

“To accelerate action to achieve

the Vision for Biodiversity of living in harmony with nature by 2050, NBSAPs must be rapidly aligned with the new goals and targets of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.”

He added that: “Having seen the strength of Nigeria’s ambition and technical expertise, I am confident that we can lead the way once again and develop a practical, inclusive and ambitious National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan.”

He told the participants that it, “is your job here today to kick

start this process. We need to ensure that we instrumentalise and accelerate action across sectors and society toward the realisation of the goals and targets of the Global Biodiversity Framework.

“I would like to recognise the vital contributions of GEF, UNEP, FAO and other Partners for providing a financial and technical support package that focuses on four components: NBSAP alignment, monitoring systems, policy & institutional coherence, and biodiversity finance.

NAS Advocates Affordable Diabetes Care in FCT Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The National Association of Seadogs (NAS) otherwise called the Pyrates Confraternity, Sahara Deck has called for focused attention on diabetes challenges in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The association highlighted the financial hardships faced by patients and urgently appealed to the FCT authorities to create affordable access to crucial diabetes medications, especially for those in the outskirts, in an attempt to alleviate the financial

burden.

The Capone of Sahara Deck, Olamide Oni in aligning with the United Nations theme for this year's World Diabetes Day: "Access to Diabetes Care," admonished the FCT authorities to implement medical subsidies and demonstrate commitment to ensuring that even those with limited means can access vital diabetes treatments.

Recognising diabetes as a leading cause of severe health issues, the association stressed the importance of proactive measures, while also

emphasising that a healthy lifestyle can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes.

With global diabetes prevalence nearly doubling since 1980 and an alarming prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus, they noted that increasing awareness had become crucial, especially in many rural Abuja's communities, hence the need for population sensitisation.

Oni stressed: "Nigeria's ranking as the world's 4th highest consumer of soft drinks raises concerns, with the need to limit sugar intake underscored by Vanguard's

September 9, 2022 publication."

Expressing solidarity with organisations nationwide and globally, the group, joined forces in urging government authorities to ensure accessible diabetes care for all citizens.

With November 14 set aside every year to mark the World Diabetes Day, the National Association of Seadogs (NAS), a Nigerian charitable and humanitarian organisation, said it would continue to highlight issues affecting the generality of the people.

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 17, 2023 ˾ T H I S D AY

37

NEWS

AFRICAN PHILANTHROPY FORUM…

L-R: Board Chair, African Philanthropy Forum, Mr. Gbenga Oyebode; Regional Director, Ford Foundation West Africa, Chichi Aniagolu; Executive Director, African Philanthropy Forum, Mosun Layode, and Senior Programme Officer, Ford Foundation West Africa, Mr. Dabesaki Mac- Ikemenjima, at the African Philanthropy Forum held in Lagos.. yesterday ETOP UKUTT

PDP Reiterates Calls for the Disbandment of Plateau Election Tribunal Wants already decided cases reviewed

ChuksOkochainAbuja

For the umpteenth time, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called for the disbandment of the Plateau State and National Assembly Tribunal and election petitions already decided to be reviewed.

The PDP accused the Plateau

State Election Tribunal of manifest bias against the party, stating that it has been established that were the All Progressives Congress (APC) comes second, the tribunal will award victory to the APC, but where it came third, the tribunal will order for a rerun.

Addressing a press confidence

Emenike Mourns Aba Accident Victims The 2023 governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State, Chief Ikechi Emenike, has said that conscious efforts must be made to minimise the occurrence of avoidable deaths in the state.

He stated this while reacting to the fatal accident which occured at the Ogbor Hill area of Aba on Tuesday resulting to loss of four lives while 11 people survived with varying degrees of injuries.

Emenike, who expressed anguish at the abrupt end of the victims, advised the state

government to do the necessary things to ensure that the lives of Abians were no longer jeopardised by careless drivers.

He noted that even though nobody has the power to determine when and how death would come, “we must do our best as government and as citizens to avoid avoidable deaths.”

The Abia APC leader recalled that the Ogbor Hill Water Side area had been recording fatal accidents over the years, noting that the latest fatalities could have been averted if a lasting solution had been put in place.

yesterday at the party secretariat, the acting National Chairman of PDP, Ambassador Illya Damagum said: “Of particular concern is the perverse pattern and attempts by the APC to use certain hugely compromised

The Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Plc (PHED) has deployed a Customer Engagement Platform and a Call Centre of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission’s headquarters in Abuja, which has gone live. This was disclosed yesterday in a statement signed by the Head, Corporate Communications, PHED, Olubukola Ilevbare, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

According to Ilevbare, the innovation follows compliance with the Nigerian Electricity

Regulatory Commission (NERC) Order on Deployment of Customer Engagement Platforms pursuant to Section 119 of the Electricity Act. She explained that the order aims to standardise call centres deployed

by DisCos for seamless integration with the commission’s call centre.

According to her, “In accordance with the functionalities of the Customer Engagement Platform, the platform is aimed at improving the resolution of complaints filed with the DISCO as it provides real-time visibility to complaints escalated to the DISCO.”

Fidelis David in Akure

The Ondo State Commander of the Western Security Networks Agency, which is codenamed Amotekun, Mr Adetinji Adeleye, has announced that the corps has arrested 250 suspects for alleged criminal activities, sequel to the

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has mourned the death of former Minister of Finance, Dr. Onaolapo Soleye, aged 90.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, yesterday on behalf of FEC, described the late former minister as a seasoned scholar and a prudent financial manager.

The statement which was signed

by Director, Information, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Segun Imohiosen,

noted that Dr. Soleye, who was appointed the Minister of Finance under the military regime of Gen. Muhammahu Buhari, played a pivotal role in initiating policies which strengthened the nation’s currency and also discouraged the importation of goods into the country; thereby contributing immensely in repositioning the nation’s economy.

The SGF said the late former minister was a philanthropist and a lover of God and humanity, whose event-filled life on earth was dedicated for service to the nation and humanity at large.

Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Nasarawa, Delta, Ogun and other States of the nation where the Election Petition and Appeal Panels were used to rob the PDP of victory won at the polls.

flag off of its 2023/2024 Ember Months Campaign (EMC), Operation 24/7 Patrols and Joint-border Patrols of the corps two weeks ago.

Adeleye said that the operations would ensure that criminal activities are reduced to the barest minimum before, during and after

the yuletide.

Parading the suspects at the corps headquarters in Akure, Adeleye said that the actual arrests were 250 but having profiled them, 195 were released to traditional rulers in their communities while 55 would be prosecuted.

He said: “Two weeks ago, we

commenced the 2023 edition of the ember patrol, aimed at ensuring that commuters and residents of Ondo State enjoy the yuletide period without fear and in furtherance of this, we commenced 24 hours-seven-days patrol in the 18 council areas and the state capital.

Akpabio: I’ve Never Smoke Cigarettes or Taken Alcohol in My Life Sunday Aborisade in Abuja Senate President Godswill Akpabio has said he had never taken alcohol or smoke cigarettes in his life because of their side effects in human system.

Akpabio declared this while

admonishing children of various secondary schools across the country who participated in the grand finale of the National Quiz Competition organised by the National Institute for Legislative And Democratic Studies (NILDS).

The theme of the competition held at the National Assembly , Abuja was “The Legislature And Democracy.”

Akpabio, who commended the participating schools for getting to the finals of the exercise, urged the youths

to stay away from vices that could affect their dreams and aspirations in life.

He specifically urged them to refrain from taking alcohol or engage in smoking any form of substance that could be injurious to their health.

Former ICPC Chair Slams Civil Servants, Academics as Experts Proffer Solutions to Corruption Raheem Akingbolu

(SAN), has blamed top civil servants, politicians and others

for the high level of corruption, bedeviling the nation. He has also explained how lack of administrative experience led some heads of agencies, particularly academics, into corrupt acts.

Speaking at a forum in Abuja tagged ‘Behavioural Change

and Conference Exhibition 2023’ organised by Akin Fadeyi Foundation (AFF) a not-for-profit organisation that uses communications, media, and technology to help combat corruption and promote social change in Nigeria, the anticorruption czar, however, faulted

the hasty generalisation in some quarters that all Nigerians are corrupt.

Owasanoye specifically recalled that those in the academics who headed one agency or another, became ICPC’s customers within one year as a result of one infraction or the other.

Sokoto Commends USAID State2State on Improved Budget Process Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

The Governor of Sokoto State, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu, has commended the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) State2State support for

improving citizens’ engagement and participation in budget process.

Aliyu stated this at the 2024 budget consultative meetings with citizens on budget preparation and policies implementation through town

hall meeting.

He also pledged his administration’s commitment to the implementation of the USAID, State2State Open Government Partnership’s (OGP) projects in the state through fiscal responsibility,

accountability and transparency.

Governor Aliyu, who presided over the consultative meeting while receiving inputs from stakeholders, declared that “this platform has become a meeting point that will sustain Sokoto State’s fiscal responsibility.

How Corruption Can be Controlled through Intervention, Says NISER Boss Yinka Kolawole inOsogbo

FEC Mourns Ex- Finance Minister, Soleye The Director General of Nigerian Olawale Ajimotokan inAbuja

“This sinister agenda tailored towards a systemic emasculation of the opposition and foisting of an oppressive one-party system is evident in the conduct and outcome of certain election petitions in

Ondo Amotekun Arrests 250 Suspects for Armed Robbery, Kidnapping, Arson

past Chairman of the Independent Corrupt PHED Deploys Customer Immediate and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Engagement Platform Practices Professor Bolaji Owasanoye Blessing IbungeinPortHarcourt

Electoral Petition Courts to snatch elections clearly won by the PDP and award them to the defeated candidates of the APC who were rejected by the people at the polls in most States across the country.

Institute of Social and Economic Research (NISER), Professor Antonia Taiye Simbine, has remarked that corruption has remained prevalent and affecting governance and businesses in

Nigeria despite previous efforts to combat the menace through legal means.

Speaking yesterday at November 2023 Edition of the Actualizing Behaviour Change [ABC] series, Simbine , who was represented by Professor Adesoji Adesanya, noted that controlling corruption would

require a systemic approach that is based on both rules and values with a comprehensive strategy and messaging that would address the public and private sectors and all Nigerian citizens.

The director general, who spoke on a theme: “Corrupt Behaviour in Nigeria’s Public Sector: Simplifying

a Complex Phenomenon.” stressed that the paper attempted to simplify the complex phenomenon of corruption by examining the various channels through which behaviour interacts with systemic factors in order to enable the public to understand the dynamics of corruption in Nigeria.

Church Worker Arrested for Allegedly Impregnating 14-year-old Girl David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

A church worker, 31, who gave his name as James Rich, has been arrested for allegedly impregnating a 14-year-old girl. The man, who described himself as a yardman, works

in St Michaels and All Angels Anglican Church, Ifite Awka, Anambra State where he also resides with his family.

The man was arrested by officials of the state Ministry of Women’s Affairs in collaboration with police

operatives, for having canal knowledge of a 14-year-old girl.

According to a statement and a video sent out by the media aide of the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs, Hon Ify Obinabo,

Miss Chidinma Ikeanyionwu, Rich lured the girl to the church toilet shortly before commencement of church service on Sunday, and had canal knowledge of her, after which he gave her N200 to buy herself something.

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 17, 2023 ˾ T H I S D AY

38

WORLD OF ISLAM Police Arrest Three Suspects for

NEWS XTRA

Edited by: MJO Mustapha Email deji.mustapha@thisdaylive.com

Extortion through Death Threats Islam’s Call for Control: Navigating

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

Police in Anambra State have smashed two syndicates which specialise in extorting money from unsuspecting members of the public through death threats.

The suspects were apprehended at Umunze, Orumba South and Ozubulu, Ekwusigo Local Government Areas of the state.

According a statement issued by the Anambra State Police Command’s spokesperson, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, the suspects had sent text messages to their

victim identifying themselves as members of ESN and demanding to be paid huge sums or else they would either be killed or kidnapped.

Ikenga confirmed that the suspects were already in custody, and would be arraigned soon.

He said the suspect arrested in Ozubulu used two different phone lines to issue deadly threats to a businessman, adding: “He claimed to be an ESN Commander and ordered his victim to pay up or be killed.

“Meticulous investigation employing technology and

human assets led detectives to his hideout where he was arrested and both SIMs recovered. He was taken into custody and is to be arraigned soon.

“The state Commissioner of Police, Aderemi Adeoye, has commended both DPOs for their diligence and painstaking effort which led to unravelling the identities of the crime suspects and apprehending them.

“He assured the public that the Command headquarters would continue to motivate its personnel across the state for optimum performance.”

Be Creative, Critical Thinkers, University Don Urges Students Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano The Vice Chancellor of BabaAhmed University, Kano, Professor Idris Adamu Tanko, has urged Nigerian students to be creative in critical thinking as a tool to encourage development, innovation, and progress.

Professor Tanko spoke with journalists in Kano while celebrating the World Philosophy Day (WPD) declared by the

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) organised by the university.

He warned students not to allow themselves to be dominated by the trivial thoughts in their minds but, to allow critical thinking to pave the way for new inventions as well as enhancement of creativity.

“Today is the day marked out to celebrate World Philosophy Day.

It is a UNESCO pronouncement that people celebrate Philosophy every last Thursday of November.

This year they are asking the world to celebrate it within these three days, from the 14th to the 17th of the month. This celebration is concurrently going on all over the world.

“In our case, we are also celebrating it intending to open the minds of the young ones to understand what the world is into.

Adamawa Provost Wants TETFUND Funding for Colleges of Agriculture DajiSaniinYola The Provost of College of Agriculture Ganye,Adamawa State, Mr. Hussaini Idris Danjuma, has appealed to the federal government to integrate the funding of the Colleges of Agriculture across the nation into its security policy.

Danjuma said this in an interactive session with THISDAY on Wednesday after the College matriculation ceremony was held recently in Ganye and noted that the FG can best do this by re-enlisting the colleges into TETFUND beneficiary institutions. “The rationale behind denying the colleges of Agriculture TETFUND funds is not understood, how can Nigeria achieve its food security policies without funding the Colleges of Agriculture?

He further revealed that most countries all over the world uses colleges ofAgriculture to achieve their food security need but surprisingly Nigeria is negligible on funding and

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as ODUWA NAOMI now wish to be known and addressed as OSAGIEDE NAOMI. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as TAIWO DEBORAH SANGODAPO now wish to be known and addressed as TAIWO DEBORAH AKINWUNMI. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as BUKOLA ESTHER AJASA now wish to be known and addressed as OLUWABUKOLA ESTHER ADEYINKA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as OGUNSUYI RACHEAL FUNMILAYO, now wish to be known and addressed as SHODIPO RACHEAL FUNMILAYO. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note I formerly known and addressed as OBEMEASO ANTONY YOMI. R., now wish to be known and addressed as TONY YOMI PIUS. All former documents remain valid. The public should please take note.

equipping the colleges of Agriculture for better agricultural research to aid foods and animals productions.

According to him, the current challenges of global warming and climate change has posted the dire need of Agricultural expertise to

enable efficient Modern agricultural productions to achieve adequate food security for the nation than the usual subsistence kind of agricultural, which is done in smaller quantities without the use of modern machine or equipment.

Master Chef Grace Glo-sponsored African Voices Playmakers CNN International’s half-hour magazine programme, African Voices Playmakers, this week showcased the culinary prowess of two foremost chefs from Republic of Benin and Mauritius.

The programme is sponsored by telecommunications giant, Globacom.

The two innovative chefs are Georgiana Viou, noted for fusing the taste of his Beninese roots to make exquisite cuisines in France where she is domiciled, and Ayushi “Chef Yu” Gooroochurn, the youngest executive chef in Mauritius, who paints a unique culinary identity using an inventive palette of tastes and flavours.

Viou emigrated from the Republic of Benin to Paris, France, with the aim of becoming an interpreter, by a stroke of luck,

however, she found herself working in the culinary arena.

By March this year, her skills had attracted so much attention that Michelin Guide, the bible of gastronomy, awarded her a star for her cuisine at “Rouge,” a restaurant in the southwestern French city of Nimes. The Michelin star was bestowed on her in recognition of her “singular cuisine ... celebrating her Mediterranean environment and Benin roots.”

The 46-year-old mother of three and self-tutored chef was a candidate on the popular TV show Master Chef only to emerge a member of the jury on the same programme a few years later.

REMILEKUN TITILOPE ADEFALA, now wish to be known and addressed as REMILEKUN TITILOPE KINGSLEY. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note I formerly known and addressed as ILOAKAGBUNA CHIDIOGO SYLVIA, now wish to be known and addressed as ANAYO CHIDIOGO SYLVIA. All former documents remain valid. The public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as OKPALA CHISOM CYNTHIA ILOAKAGBUNA, now wish to be known and addressed as ANAYO CHISOM CYNTHIA, All former documents remain valid. The public should please take note I formerly known and addressed as ILOAKAGBUNA CHIDERA MICHEAL, now wish to be known and addressed as ANAYO CHIDERA MICHEAL. All former documents remain valid. The public should please take note.

AyódejiAke

Sanwo-Olu, Commissioner to Launch Book Addressing CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as Wellness of Children The wife of the Lagos State Governor, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, and the state Commissioner for Basic Education, Hon. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, are set to launch a book written to address the wellness of children.

The book titled: ‘Who Will Love Our Children?‘ was written

by Fatimah Isagba, and will be launched on November 25, 2023, at the Olusegun Osunkeye Seminar Room, NECA Building, Ikeja, Lagos, by 12 noon.

Engaging major stakeholders, the state said: “Toleve Communications invites parents, education officers, school administrators, teachers, emergency officials, legislators, traditional rulers, clergy, communities and relevant stakeholders to the public presentation and book launch.”

The occasion will be chaired by the Lagos First Lady, and the keynote address will be delivered by the Commissioner for Basic Education, while the book review will be done by Tara Aisida.

Humanity’s History of Violence (III) By: Spahic Omer/Islamicity

From pacifism and self-defence to fighting tyrannies and oppression

Demonstrating this philosophy, the Prophet and the early Muslims were first asked to shun the prospect of fighting completely. Instead, they were bidden to carry on with their sufferings patiently in face of growing harassments and torments by their enemies. The culmination of this pacifist strategy was the migration from Makkah, the epicentre of tyranny, to Madinah, the abode of possibilities and dreams. The Muslims just wanted to be left alone minding their own business and in peace practicing their new faith. They tolerated everybody and accepted everybody’s preferences, so it was natural that others were expected to treat the Muslims likewise. This was a Muslim golden rule whereby one should treat others as he would like others to treat him: “What is hateful to you, do not do to your fellow”, or “avoid doing what you would blame others for doing.”

However, when the enemies of the truth and by extension of Muslims failed to refrain from their provocations, intensifying and yet attempting to internationalize them, enough was enough. Muslims were allowed to defend themselves. The first Qur’anic verses revealed in conjunction with this authorization say it all: “Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you but do not transgress. Indeed, Allah does not like transgressors. And kill them wherever you overtake them and expel them from wherever they have expelled you, and fitnah is worse than killing. And do not fight them at al-Masjid al- Haram until they fight you there. But if they fight you, then kill them. Such is the recompense of the disbelievers. And if they cease, then indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful. Fight them until there is no (more) fitnah and (until) worship is (acknowledged to be) for Allah. But if they cease, then there is to be no aggression except against the oppressors” (al-Baqarah, 190-193).

The following are the guiding principles on fighting that can be extracted from the cited verses: First, Muslims fight only in the way of Allah, not for any personal, tribal, national, political, economic, expansionist, or imperialist interests. Secondary concerns must be aligned with the utmost concern of “rendering the Word of Allah supreme on earth.” If not, fitnah and fitnah-mongers will be ubiquitous. No life, property, honour and sanctity will be safe then. Besides, there is another Qur’anic verse that reinforces this norm: “Those who believe fight in the cause of Allah, and those who disbelieve fight in the cause of Taghut (evil or Satan).

So fight against the allies of Satan. Indeed, the plot of Satan has ever been weak” (al-Nisa’, 76).

Second, Muslims do not fight until they are forced and left with no choice. But when they do, the Islamic concept of comprehensive excellence must apply. Muslims should fight their enemies with such determination and proficiency that they – and other prospective enemies – would think twice before waging wars against Muslims. Muslims ought to strive to make an example of their enemies (“and kill them wherever you overtake them”, “but if they fight you, then kill them (instead of merely fighting them).”

Third, Muslims fight only those who fight them.

Muslims must defend themselves, taking back what is theirs: freedom, property, honour and prospects.

Fourth, Muslims do not fight to save oppressors and tyrants, and their minions. These are the tormentors of people, freedom and thought. They stand for the exact opposite of everything a beautiful, dynamic, purposeful and progressive life entails. Their actions are more loathsome and more hurtful than killing.

Fifth, this whole thing notwithstanding, no sooner do the motives for fighting end, than fighting itself ceases. Establishing legitimacy for fighting is anything but easy. Just like in case of other pursuits, fighting, similarly, is a domain where as much sins as rewards can be procured.

Sixth, Islam introduced a comprehensive and fair war ethics that eliminates the unjust use of power.

There is no other moral code of war - in classical and modern times - that can rival it. Muslims are bound by the stipulations of their war ethics both when winning and when losing. Either way, Muslims are no more than the servants of a divine exemplar.

Other considerations stay in the background. This ethics is encapsulated in the imperative: “do not transgress (in fighting), for indeed, Allah does not like transgressors”, and in the words that Allah is “Forgiving and Merciful” which are placed before another imperative “fight them…” and after alluding to the possibility of ending hostilities. This means that, no matter the odds, if Allah is Compassionate, Generous and Forgiving vis-à-vis all people, Muslims too should be just, considerate, tolerant and forbearing when conducting themselves towards their enemies.

As instructed in another Qur’anic verse: “O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do” (al-Ma’idah, 8).

These first Qur’anic verses on fighting were later supplemented by the rest of the Qur’anic injunctions concerning the subject matter. Within the bounds of the latter it is commanded as part of the Islamic fighting

excellence that the polytheists be fought collectively as they had started fighting against Muslims and continue doing so collectively; that the polytheists be killed wherever they are found, and be captured, besieged and ambushed wherever possible; that if any of the polytheists seeks protection, he should be so given, in order that he may hear the words of Allah, after which he should be delivered to his place of safety; that as long as the polytheists stand true to the Prophet and Muslims, the latter too should stand true to them; that those polytheists who are persistently wicked and rebellious, transgressing all bounds, and who concerning Muslims do not observe any pact of kinship or covenant of protection, should be fought and excluded from peace initiatives; that those who break their oaths after their treaty, and who defame Islam, should be fought, because there are no oaths sacred to them; that those whose wickedness warrant fighting are to be fought until they might cease, based on which the problem is such people’s evil conduct, not their very selves or their religious and national identities; that people generally can be fought – yet are recommended to be fought - if they break their oaths, are determined to expel the Prophet (Muslims), and if they begin attacking Muslims first; that fighting those wretched people is a form of Allah’s punishment and disgrace for them by the hands of Muslims, and also a form of honouring Muslims thereby and healing their breasts (by defending themselves, upholding the truth and chastening evil and evil-doers); that fighting, whenever necessary, cannot be for the sake of any lowly worldly gains, but rather for the sake of Allah and His truth against those “who do not believe in Allah or in the Last Day and who do not consider unlawful what Allah and His Messenger have made unlawful and who do not adopt the religion of truth”; that, in compliance with the principle of fighting in the cause of Allah, fighting also should be “for the oppressed among men, women, and children who say: ‘Our Lord, take us out of this city of oppressive people and appoint for us from Yourself a protector and appoint for us from Yourself a helper’” (al-Tawbah, 5-29, 36; al-Nisa’, 75).

The above guiding principles on fighting are crowned with several pioneering and rather general Islamic teachings, some of which are as follows.

First, the freedom of thought and belief is ensured: “There shall be no compulsion in (acceptance of) the religion. The right course has become clear from the wrong” (al-Baqarah, 256).

Second, human life is sacred. A single innocent life is equivalent to the lives of all mankind: “Because of that, We decreed upon the Children of Israel (and herewith upon Muslims as well) that whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption (done) in the land – it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one – it is as if he had saved mankind entirely” (al-Ma’idah, 32).

Third, Muslims are free to be righteous and deal justly with those who do not fight them because of Islam, nor strive to expel them from their homes: “Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly” (al-Mumtahanah, 8).

Fourth, Muslims cannot have friendly relations with those who fight them because of Islam, drive them out from their homes, or support others in doing thus: “Allah only forbids you from those who fight you because of religion and expel you from your homes and aid in your expulsion – (forbids) that you make allies of them. And whoever makes allies of them, then it is those who are the wrongdoers” (al-Mumtahanah, 9).

Fifth, Islam is the religion of justice. Originating in the heavenly spheres and operating under the aegis of the revealed frame of reference, justice is paramount in Islam. It connotes an ontological paradigm, celebrating the humanness of man and the transcendence of the Creator. Unlike the other justice models, the Islamic model of justice is blind when it comes to relationships, stakes and emotional attachments. The Qur’an proclaims: “O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not (personal) inclination, lest you not be just” (al-Nisa’, 135).

Sixth, fulfilling all kinds of contracts, bonds and obligations, delivering trusts back to their owners, speaking kindly to mankind, and judging between people (and dealing with them) justly (al-Baqarah, 83; al-Ma’idah, 1; al-Nisa’, 58) – these make up the backbone of the Islamic social contract. “Excellent is that which Allah instructs you. Indeed, Allah is ever Hearing and Seeing” (al-Nisa’, 58).

Seventh, the rights of those to whom Muslims have given a covenant (mu’ahadah) are guaranteed both on earth and in heaven. The Prophet said: “Indeed, whoever kills a mu’ahid (a non-Muslim under a covenant) that has a covenant from Allah and a covenant from His Messenger, then he has violated the covenant with Allah and the covenant of His Messenger, so he shall not smell the fragrance of Paradise; even though its fragrance can be sensed from the distance of seventy autumns” (Jami’ al-Tirmidhi).

To Be Continued

39

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2023

FRIDAYSPORTS

Group Sports Editor: Duro Ikhazuagbe Email: duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY

Super Eagles Drop Two Precious Points Against Lesotho in Uyo

Duro Ikhazuagbe Nigeria’s Super Eagles began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign on a shaky note at home in Uyo yesterday evening. The Jose Peseiro coached Eagles were held to a 1-1 draw at home by minnows Lesotho.

Playing a team ranked 153rd in the world - 113 places below Nigeria, Lesotho who have never beaten Super Eagles in all their previous three outings, flew into the lead when Motlomelo Mkwanazi gave the Crocodiles the shocking lead in the 56th minute from a corner kick.

That goal silenced the home fans inside the Godswill Akpabio

2026 WORLD CUP QUALIFIER Stadium in Uyo. However, West Brom defender, Semi Ajayi, restored parity in the 67th minute in similar fashion, heading home from a corner kick played by Kelechi Iheanacho.

Thereafter, Super Eagles could not find a winner in their Group C opener in a rainy Uyo stadium.

Eagles blew the chance to take charge of the driver’s seat after Zimbabwe and Rwanda had played out a goalless encounter in the group’s other match played 24 hours earlier.

Peseiro's side dominated the first half but paid for their profligacy as Iheanacho saw a free-kick saved, Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi failed to capitalise on a promising cut-back and Ademola Lookman had a low shot across goal turned away.

Technically, Lesotho are leading Group C on same one point as

Nigeria, Zimbabwe and Rwanda but are ahead on the away goal rule.

Nigeria’s next game in the qualifiers is against Zimbabwe on Sunday in Rwanda.

Elsewhere yesterday in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying series, Mohamed Salah hit four goals as Egypt cruised to victory in their first qualifier.

The Liverpool forward starred as Egypt thrashed Djibouti 6-0 in Cairo while elsewhere there were

wins for Algeria, Mozambique, Burundi and Gabon.

Salah's first for Egypt came in the 17th minute after Mostafa Mohamed whipped in a cross from the left.

Five minutes later, Salah made it 2-0 from the penalty spot and he completed his hat-trick shortly after the break, pouncing on a ball from Ahmed El Fatouh.

With 20 minutes to go Salah bagged his fourth, with El Fatouh again the provider, and Mohamed

added a fifth four minutes later.

Trezeguet completed the rout for the Pharaohs with a strike in the 89th minute inside the Cairo International Stadium.

NIgeria’s Starting XI against Lesotho Uzoho – Collins (Onyemaechi 73), Osayi-Samuel (Ola Aina 84), Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey – Onyeka (Aribo 73), Iwobi, Lookman (Moses Simon 59), Iheanacho- Boniface, Awoniyi (Moffi 59)

54footballx Elevates Yabatech Rector’s Cup Sponsorship by revolutionary fan engagement platform, 54footballx, has taken the Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech) Rector’s Cup to new heights.

Fresh from a partnership with energetic Lagos-based Nigeria Premier Football League side, Sporting Lagos, 54footballx has since become the leading fan engagement platform in the African football ecosystem.

Established in 1972, the Rector’s Cup was created to honour the Rector of the College as well as bring students from different faculties together. The Rector’s Cup is enjoying a rebirth with 54footballx deploying unique fan engagement strategy to create a community of shared sportsmanship and camaraderie at Yabatech.

According to a statement from 54footballx, “Our mission at 54footballx is to elevate the standard of higher education

sports across Africa. Through our community network, the teams playing in the finals will have the opportunity to showcase their skills to coaches and agents in the Nigerian football ecosystem.”

In addition, 54footballx said: “We hope that this will be the start of a greater connection between the College students who have professional football aspirations and the Nigerian professional leagues.”

Sixteen teams are competing in the Men’s and Women’s category and action started on Monday, November 13.

For the first time in the history of the competition, all 16 participating teams and 288 players will step out in jerseys presented by 54footballx.

Since inception, 54footballx has demonstrated the importance of fan engagement in developing football in Nigeria and advertising Nigeria’s top flight league, the NPFL.

Dozy Mmobuosi Foundation Promotes Prostate Cancer Awareness Walk Akpata Says Cricket is the Best Run Sport in Nigeria

Super Eagles’ Victor Boniface (left) and Taiwo Awoniyi (right) battled in vain as Lesotho’s Crocodiles snatched a point from their 1-1 draw with Nigeria in the Match-day 1 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match played in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State...yesterday evening

As the world marks the 2023 Prostrate Cancer Day, Dozy Mmobuosi Foundation, a medical outreach is organising a 3.3km Walk to promote fitness to create awareness for the disease.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Foundation, Martin Ebuwa, said in Lagos that the theme of the campaign is "Let's keep fit and fight prostrate cancer".

The Walk will start at the popular Ikeja under the bridge and terminate at the Ikeja City Mall in Alausa on Saturday, November 18 at 8am.

Speaking further on the event which has been endorsed by the Nigeria Cancer Society (NCS), Ebuwa said "We also would have on the Walk some of our favourite celebrities who are supporting the awareness campaign and the atmosphere would be made convivial by music from lively DJs and tasteful refreshment" The Foundation would on the day offer free prostrate cancer screening to men above 45 years as well as free blood pressure and blood sugar tests to everyone who volunteers for the tests.

New Era Girls Emerge Inaugural Champions of Monday Gift Girls Cup 2023 In a thrilling culmination of talent and dedication, New Era Girls Senior Secondary School have emerged victorious in the maiden edition of the Monday Gift Girls Cup (MGGC) 2023.

The event, held at the Obele Community High School Ground in Surulere, Lagos, showcased the remarkable synergy between sports and education.

The championship, sponsored by the dynamic Gift Monday and expertly coordinated by Dr. Gbeleyi Olasunkanmi, aimed to engage girls aged 8 to 16 in grassroots football while imparting essential life skills.

The participating juniors and seniors schools, including from New Era Girls, Obele Community, Araromi, and Coker Secondary Schools, displayed exceptional sportsmanship and talent.

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Grassroots Sports Development, Mr. Adebanji Atewogboye SKIBANJ, graced the event, urging the young athletes to channel their efforts into both education and sports. SKIBANJ emphasized the holistic benefits of sports, not just as a lucrative profession but also for enhancing individual health.

President of the Nigeria Cricket Federation, Uyi Akpata, has said that his sport is the best-run sport in the country.

He made this claim while pitching his cricket to the private sector at an event in Lagos tagged ‘Cricket meet Corporates’ on Victoria Island, Lagos.

“I’d like to say the Nigeria Cricket Federation structure is the best I have seen around, and it is modeled from my experience in the private sector,” the career accountant noted.

The meeting was meant for accountability to stakeholders, and to pitch the future of the game to new and potential sponsors. Uyi told the cricket stakeholders that the three international awards won by the federation and a recent visit by the International Cricket Council’s Development Manager, William Glenwright, to understudy Nigeria’s growth plan was no fluke.

“We have some of the most dedicated workforce in sports development and some of the states boast a whooping 25, 000 kids’ in-take into the game annually. We currently do 250, 000 and we have raised the stake to 500, 000 for the coming season” The PwC National Under-17 Championship has been one of the key events that have driven the grassroots effort of late; as most of the field officers see the platform as a place to showcase their regional engagement efforts.

Akpata said: “In 2023, we had

uLesson come on board our youth project, and many more corporates like Accessbank joined our Women’s T20i Invitational that had five countries (Nigeria, Ghana, Rwanda, Cameroon, and Sierra Leone). Eko Disco, Intercontinental Hotel, Sparkle, and Alaro City have also seen value in our projects.”

“In 2024, we are raising the stakes, and as the ICC has also beamed the searchlight on our activities, the 2.5 billion audience of Cricket is ours and our partners to leverage.”

Akpata added that the Nigeria Women’s team, presently ranked 30th in the world, and Men’s 38th standing on the World T20i table respectively adds to Nigeria’s enviable profile as the new year beckons.

“Our male team is presently in Zimbabwe, heading to Namibia next week to begin a historic chase for the 2024 World Cup ticket, and the ladies will do the same in a few weeks in December.”

He said the West Africa Under-15

Championship, The 2024 Women’s T20i Invitational in March, Men’s T20i Invitational, The Nigeria Super League, National championships, Secondary School Challenge Cup, and The Nigeria Universities Cricket League are some of the projects that the Federation will onboard next year.

“We are very focused and value-driven and will be looking forward to working with several brands on these,” he concluded with enthusiasm.

L-R: Secretary General of the Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF), Sani Mohammed; President, NCF, Uyi Akpata; Head, Clients and Markets Development, PwC, Sylva Ifedigbo; Former National Team Captain and Board Member, Endurance Ofem; and General Manager NCF, Emeka Igwilo, during the ‘Cricket Meet Corporates’ event in Lagos...recently

75

Friday, November 17, 2023

TR

UT H

& RE A S O

N

Price: N250

MISSILE

FG to Unoccupied Buildings’ Landlords

87 +

5( $ 62

1

\HDUV

“There are lots of abandoned estates, especially in Abuja and the vicinity. I think, in some other states, we do have a few of them. What’s important...to take stock of all those abandoned houses. Then, we interface with the owners...we ask them what do you want? If you want to keep them unoccupied, the government will charge you triple ground rent instead of the single ground rent that we charge” –Minister of Housing, Ahmed Dangiwa, shows red card to owners of unoccupied buildings in Abuja and environs.

4*/$&

AKINOSUNTOKUN DIALOGUE WITH NIGERIA

akinosuntokun@thisdaylive.com

The Last Emperor

I

could have bet my last shekels that then aspirant Bola Ahmed Tinubu was never going to emerge the presidential candidate of the All Peoples Congress, APC. I was this certain on account of the logic that no aspirant could emerge the candidate without the buy-in of the cultic and all powerful President Muhammadu Buhari. It was more or less an open secret, through contrived slips of tongue and body language that Buhari may not have made up his mind on who to hand over the reins of power to but he appeared to have been resolute on who not to.

When we replay the Abeokuta video clip,(on a campaign stump speech at the Ogun state capital, prior to the presidential primaries), of Tinubu’s open declaration of hostilities against the powers that be in the APC, it is impossible not to draw the conclusion that the then aspirant believed he had come to the end of his presidential run. It was the beginning of a series of twists and turns of disappointment turned blessing for him.

So that no one is in doubt about his intentions, Buhari has been this categorical of his desire to anoint the president who succeeds him “In keeping with the established internal policies of the Party and as we approach the Convention in a few days, therefore, I wish to solicit the reciprocity and support of the Governors and other stakeholders in picking my successor, who would fly the flag of our party for election into the office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2023”.

The grapevine had it that, ironically, it was Tinubu’s resolve to go for broke in Abeokuta that saved the day for his campaign. It was a plot in which the feisty first lady, Hajia Aisha Buhari, featured as Tinubu’s guardian angel. It turned out that rather than get enraged (and thereby redouble his anti Tinubu resolve) at the rude and insolent frontal attack on him, Buhari was rattled and perplexed. Privy to this crucial insider knowledge was the first lady, who whispered to her political partner to pile it on until Buhari’s resolve was reduced to tatters. She found a co conspirator in the caucus of the Northern APC governors.

With eyes set on power rotation back to the North in the near future, it was in the governors’ individual vested interest (as in presidential aspiration) that the presidency rotated to the South this time around. Haven gotten wind of Buhari’s inclination to field Ahmed Lawan as his successor, their response to the Buhari solicitation (to be given the privilege of choosing his successor) was the qualification that the party candidate must come from the South-in compliance with the North/South rotation principle.

Finding himself boxed into a corner, the former President capitulated and consoled himself with option B, (to covertly back the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, candidate, Atiku Abubakar, a fellow fulani moslem).

If therefore,Tinubu is the president of Nigeria today, it is no thanks to his predecessor.

Buhari

The knock-on effect of emerging president autonomous of Buhari or any godfather was a commensurate boost to his authority as president. Power is afterall the capacity to get one’s objective regardless of anyone’s contrary wishes. In the event, the APC governors sold themselves short and relieved Tinubu of any obligation of deference to them by selling themselves for a mess of pottage. The spectacle of the APC presidential primaries in Abuja was a sight to behold. It was not just the spectre of several contestants stepping down for a fellow contestant, it was the open secret of governors being financially induced to do so.

The ‘Independent National Electoral Commission’, INEC, took off from where the APC presidential primaries had left off.

Prior to the presidential election, several organisations followed the routine global culture of conducting public opinion polls on the popularity of candidates. The three leading candidates were Peter Obi of the Labour Party, Atiku Abubakar of the PDP and Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the APC. Almost all of the pollsters, notably those of Bloomberg and CNN (by a wide margin) gave the election to Obi. According to the Encyclopaedia Britannica, “Opinion polls are generally conducted with statistical selection controls in place and are thus called scientific”. A singular characteristic of science, stricto sensu, is predictability. In other words, it shall make a prediction and the prediction shall come to pass.

If the overwhelming majority of the polls predicted that Obi will win the election, why then should anyone be surprised at his (non INEC certified) victory at the 2023 presidential election? At any rate, at 4am or thereabouts on March 1st 2023, INEC took its turn in the relay race of delivering the Aso presidential villa for Tinubu. Regardless of the son of soil Atiku Abubakar factor, the votes of the Northern muslims segment of

the Nigerian electorate proved quite decisive in tipping Tinubu over the bar. Upon being sworn in as president, no one would have been surprised were he to opt to play the Northern proxy and reflect a Northern bias in the distribution of strategic political and public appointments. Surprisingly, he hasn’t and has thereby rendered himself liable to the unintended consequence of Buhari’s crass nepotism.

It was predictable that any correction of his lopsided governance style would be interpreted by the beneficiary Northern constituency as discrimination against them. In this projection, the extant bitter withdrawal syndrome of the Northern political elite was foretold. While the North wallows in this quiescent bitterness, the South West zone appears to have been over compensated by their son. Given the winner-takes-all context of Nigeria’s politics, and against the immediate background of Buhari’s Northernisation agenda and the remote backdrop of President Olusegun Obasanjo nationalist even handedness, Tinubu’s apparent Yoruba bias, is a remarkable political assertiveness.

I have been a little bit surprised at the preparedness of the Yoruba intelligentsia (or a fraction thereof) to adopt the prescription of calculated realpolitik and look the other way-where the liability of the shortcomings of the President is concerned. At play here is the unresolved age old Igbo/Yoruba political angst (with Obi as the victim, this time around) and an unflattering understanding of Nigerian politics as unamenable to high ideals. Others less charitable may see the attitude as mere euphemism for political opportunism.

Taking a cue from the Republic of Niger’s political crisis in which they found common purpose with Nigeria and Ecowas (both of which are controlled by the Nigerian President) the Western powers have equally adopted Tinubu as their leading political point man in the Ecowas subregion. Given the deepening gloom and despair that have embraced Nigeria including, especially, the tragic dysfunction and disappointment of the 2023 general elections, national debate is trending back towards the inevitability of constitutional reforms, aka restructuring. It is a no brainer to reiterate that the basic leadership problem of Nigeria is political mismanagement. Reinforcing this ailment is a constitutional dysfunction which structurally predisposes and renders the political leadership prone to this political mismanagement.

The over concentration and centralisation of powers in Abuja and concomitant disinheritance and disempowerment of the states breed lopsided instability, inefficiency and abuse of power. It predisposes the constitutionally enabled wielder of the power at the centre to arbitrary, discriminatory and unaccountable exercise of power. In the words of Lord Acton, power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Increasing immiseration has resulted in the weaponization of poverty politics and very few Nigerian political leaders have the wherewithal to deploy financial resources with

devastating effect as the President.

More than any other, especially against the immediate background experience of the leadership of Buhari, the primary lesson Nigerians have learnt is that, ideally, Nigeria shouldn’t have been constituted into one country. We can draw a similar conclusion of almost all post colonial African states. But that does not amount to the logic that (haven been lumped together), we cannot make a success of the imperfect political union that was handed down to us.

The corollary of the sustained trend towards over centralisation of powers and quasi-unitary state is a drift towards dictatorship and one party state. A growing strategic shortcoming of Nigeria is the capacity to absorb and normalise any political outrage. Nigeria has arrived at a juncture in which the citizenry have become generally powerless against the will of the ascendant Nigerian political elite. It is a situation of political stupefaction where see no evil, hear no evil, say no evil has become a collective response to the prevailing gross abuse and misuse of political power. Potentially and absurd as it seems, this development can be used for the good or bad of Nigeria.

All the major indices of the political development of Nigeria had been accomplished by the fiat of civil and military dictatorship, beginning with the colonial dictatorship of the British. Be they the 1960, 1979 and 1999 constitutions. Be they the translation of the four regions of the first republic into thirty six states. In reflection of his personal history as the Nigerian army officer whose worldview and socialisation were forged within a briefly nationalistic military institution; the Nigerian war commander who received the surrender of Biafra; the military ruler who conceived and executed an unprecedented and successful transition from military rule to the civil democratic rule in 1979, Obasanjo will tell you he wants to be perceived first as a Nigerian before being acknowledged as Yoruba.

The reverse seems to be the case with Tinubu.

Though a latter day rebel, he is a mentee of the Afenifere/Yoruba nationalist politics and probably aspires to be perceived as Yoruba crown prince warts and all. Inferring from the substance and style of his short stint as Nigerian President I am substantially persuaded that the legacy he cherishes before all else is to go down in history as a Yoruba hero. Now, of course, being a Yoruba hero is not mutually exclusive of being a Nigerian patriot. At any event, you cannot be a good Yoruba without being a good Nigerian and good human being.

With a reputation in free fall, Mr President requires no further compelling incentive to work towards his moral rehabilitation and he has precisely the platform and opportunity to remould his image. Nigeria lies prostrate before him. If he leaves the Nigerian constitutional status quo intact, he will not only leave Nigeria in ruins, he can kiss goodbye to any positive remembrance of him. Posterity will judge him harshly, quite deservedly.

Printed and Published in Lagos by THISDAY Newspapers Limited. Lagos: 35 Creek Road, Apapa, Lagos. Abuja: Plot 1, Sector Centre B, Jabi Business District, Solomon Lar Way, Jabi North East, Abuja .

Printed and Published in Lagos

by Leaders & Company Limited . Lagos: 35 Creek Road, Apapa, Lagos. Abuja: Plot 1, Sector Centre Jabi Business District, Solomon LarTel: Way, Jabi North East, Abuja .

All Correspondence to POBox 54749, Ikoyi, Lagos.

EMAIL: editor@thisdaylive.com, info@thisdaylive.com.

TELEPHONE Lagos: 0802B,2924721-2, 08022924485.

Abuja: 08155555292, 08155555929 All Correspondence to POBox 54749, Ikoyi, editor@thisdaylive.com, 0802 2924721-2, 08022924485.

Abuja: Tel: 08076290487, 08076290488 24/7 ADVERTISING HOTLagos.

LINES:EMAIL: 0811 181 3085 0811 181 3086, 0811 181info@thisdaylive.com.

3087, 0811 181 3088, 0811TELEPHONE 181 3089, 0811Lagos: 181 3090.

ENQUIRIES & BOOKING: adsbooking@thisdaylive.com